Madeley and Finnigan -­ the married couple whose book and wine clubs are an industry in themselves ­- are anxiously awaiting a ruling on their case following a tax hearing, thought to be with the special commissioners. It is not known how much money is at stake, and what the substantive issues behind the dispute are.

A spokesman for the couple said: 'It is a private matter and not one we would be prepared to go into details on. Richard and Judy attended a hearing two weeks ago. A ruling is due presently.'

The special commissioners are the first port of call for tax disputes, and though the existence of proceedings and the names of parties there are not made public while the case is being heard, they are revealed in most cases when a judgment is made.