Trowbridge snooker star Stephen Lee has today confirmed he will appeal his long match-fixing ban.
The 38-year-old former World No 5 was banned for 12 years and fined £40,000 after being found guilty of seven match-fixing charges.
Adam Lewis QC, who oversaw the independent enquiry, announced the punishment this morning.
But from his Birch Gardens home in Hilperton, Lee said today: "I am absolutely devastated, I have done nothing wrong, I am totally innocent.
"I am absolutely confident about the appeal."
Lee has been suspended since October 2012 with his ban coming into force from that date, and the ban announced today means he will not be able to participate in the sport until October 12, 2024.
The former Welsh Open and Scottish open champion and World Championship semi-finalist is expected to make a full public statement later today.
MORE ON THIS STORY AT WILTSHIRETIMES.CO.UK AND IN FRIDAY'S WILTSHIRE TIMES
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