A night at the dogs has cost a Co Tipperary punter an estimated £7,000 in legal costs.
Mr Joe Stapleton fell and broke his arm at Shelbourne Park in Dublin more than four years ago. He sued Bord Na gCon for up to £30,000 damages for personal injury but lost the case.
The Circuit Court president, Mr Justice Smyth, after throwing out the claim, ordered him to pay Bord na gCon's legal fees. With both his own and the board's expenses he faces a £7,000 bill.
Mr Stapleton (54), a salesman, of Borrisoleigh, Thurles, Co Tipperary, said February 8th, 1997, was "a wet, cold night with showers of sleet" and he slipped on tarmac as he made his way back from the bookies towards the shelter of the stand - X-rays revealed a fracture of his left elbow.
Mr Justice Smyth said Mr Stapleton had failed to establish the fundamental standard of proof to establish negligence against Bord Na gCon.