Arsenal fan and sportswear trader Matthew Reed was today facing ruin after being told he must pay £176,000 legal costs to the FA Cup winners.

Three Court of Appeal judges upheld the club's complaint that Mr Reed, from Southend Road, Stanford-le-Hope, was infringing its trademarks by using them on scarves, hats and other football memorabilia he sold from his market stall.

However, despite the whistle being blown on Mr Reed, there may be extra time for him to win the match.

He now plans to petition the House of Lords for permission to appeal. The case is of major importance to clubs and traders across the country.

Published Thursday, May 22, 2003

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