Griffin’s Polish girlfriend Miss Legg, a millionairess, was found naked and bruised by a maid in the bathroom of the couple’s hotel suite.

The 36-year-old died from internal bleeding as a result of her injuries, French police said.

Griffin ran a series of tanning and gadget shops across the North West region.

But it is understood he moved to the South Coast eight years ago after the collapse of one business left him with large debts.

He was declared bankrupt at Warrington county court in 2006.

Miss Legg was still legally married to Eric Kilby, the chief executive of Crown Wallpapers, at the time of her death.

She became a director and shareholder of her husband’s agricultural services firm Greenlink, in June, 2008, but was reported to have resigned in April this year.

She had left Mr Kilby after a short marriage for Griffin two years ago.

Griffin and Miss Legg’s relationship is understood to have been one of luxury and fast living.

Pictures posted on the internet purport to show Griffin with a minor facial injury after a row with Miss Legg.