Stephen Lee banned for 12 years

Snooker player Stephen Lee has been banned for 12 years after being found guilty of match-fixing.

The announcement, which was delayed until today, has detailed the punishment for the 38-year-old, who was found guilty by an independent tribunal in Bristol of fixing seven matches between 2008 and 2009.

The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association were said to be pushing for a lifetime ban, but a 12-year suspension and £40,000 fine in costs has been deemed the appropriate punishment.

The former world number five, who has been accused of fixing matches in the UK Championships and World Championships, denied the allegations.