Newspaper pays damages to Frank Bruno for breach of privacy

Former heavyweight boxing champion Frank Bruno has accepted "substantial damages" from the News of the World over a breach of privacy, his lawyers said today.

The out-of-court settlement concerned a story in November about a party at Bruno's home.

"Frank Bruno has settled his privacy action against the News of the World in return for substantial damages.

"The action concerned a breach of his right to privacy," a statement on behalf of the star said.

Bruno was exposed last year for taking cocaine at his home in Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire.

He later apologised, admitting: "I got high on the stuff and I am deeply ashamed."

Bruno retired from boxing in 1996 and in 2003 was sectioned under the Mental Health Act.

He has since recovered and is keen to put his troubles behind him, his agent, Dave Davies, said.

"People still think he is ill and it's amazing, as he goes around the country, how many people comment 'You're looking well. How are you feeling at the moment?"' Mr Davies said.

"Frank is very well, sharp and full of life.

"He would love to go on TV on a live prime time show to show the UK that good old Frank is very well."

Earlier this month Bruno escaped injury when he crashed his Bentley in torrential rain.