Exaggerated Claim Leads to Six-Figure Costs Bill

A woman who discontinued her personal injury claim after evidence was obtained indicating that she had exaggerated her injuries has agreed to pay £323,000 in costs.

The woman had undergone gastric banding surgery in 2005. She brought claims against the surgeon and the NHS trust responsible for her care, alleging that she had sustained an acute bowel injury 11 years later which was linked to the surgery.

She claimed that she suffered from debilitating bowel issues, fatigue and reduced mobility, and that she spent most of her time in bed. She sought compensation of almost £2.6 million, including more than £850,000 for past and future loss of earnings and a similar amount for future care costs.

However, surveillance footage revealed that she played golf regularly and was able to carry a large golf bag without obvious difficulty. She was the chair of her golf club and had played in at least three tournaments since 2022.

Her claim was withdrawn shortly before it was due to come to trial. After the defendants alleged that her claim was fundamentally dishonest, she agreed to pay their costs in full.