Frank Lampard’s dad being sued for up to £100,000 by model who worked in his pub

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard’s dad is being sued for up to £100,000 by a woman who used to run his pub.

West Ham legend Frank Snr, 71, faces a legal battle with part-time model Debbie Curtis, 56, who is claiming unfair dismissal.

A source told the Sunday Mirror: “Debbie lodged her claim in February. It was all delayed by the Covid-19 lockdown, but is now finally set to go ahead.”

It is understood Mrs Curtis managed the Nightingale on the Green, in Wanstead, East London, for 20 months until June last year.

Her LinkedIn account reveals she has a fashion design degree and since 2015 has worked as a freelance model in commercial and TV work.

Frank Snr made two appearances for England during a glittering career as left-back for West Ham.

He was The Hammers’ assistant manager when his brother-in-law Harry Redknapp – I’m a Celeb winner and father of TV pundit Jamie – was the manager.

Frank Snr bought the Grade II listed pub before redecorating and refitting it in 2018 – 10 years after the death of his beloved wife Pat, the twin sister of Harry’s wife Sandra.

During his playing days, Frank Jnr, 42 – the former Chelsea star and now manager of the Blues – famously pointed skywards in tribute to his late mum each time he scored.

His dad’s pub reportedly counted 18th century highwayman Dick Turpin as a regular. He is said to have met accomplices there while plotting robberies on rich families travelling through Epping Forest.

Our source said: “The case is due to be heard by the East London Employment Tribunal from October 22 until November 2. It’s expected they’ll both go to court.”

Frank Snr told the Mirror: “I can’t talk about it as it’s ongoing.”

Mrs Curtis declined to comment.