The Committee of 25 has handled its finances competently and above board, according to the group’s treasurer.

The charity for handicapped children lost its charitable status in 2013 due to a lack of audited financial statements, but Kent Bascome, who has been its treasurer of three years, said that it had clear financials up to 2013. “We are working diligently to bring these audits to a current status,” Mr Bascome added.

The Committee of 25 has ceased operations after the Magistrates’ Court ruled that it had contravened the Charities Act for continuing to solicit donations.

Former board members and volunteers who contacted this newspaper have criticised the charity’s handling of its finances and assets. Those suggestions were rebutted by Mr Bascome, who said: “As Treasurer of Committee of 25 for the past three years, I can unequivocally state that there has been no misappropriation of funds or malfeasance during my tenure.”

The organisation hopes to regain its charity status in a matter of months, according to an earlier statement.