John Powell earned almost £1m in 20 years’ work as a freelance consultant quantity surveyor. But he failed to declare his earnings or to pay any income tax or National Insurance.

He used some of his hidden cash to buy a property on the French Riviera in Antibes.

Powell worked as a quantity surveyor, mainly on new building complexes in both the UK and overseas.

“This fraud was all about enhancing Powell’s lifestyle. It is not acceptable to exploit the UK tax system at the expense of others who pay what is due, when it is due,” said Richard Meadows, Assistant Director, Criminal Investigation at HM Revenue and Customs.

He warned: “We are investing more resources than ever in investigating those involved in this type of criminality.”