A struggling businessman fell prey to temptation when he accepted a cash handout to launder £13,000 through his bank account, a Court heard.

Asif Majid, 43, was lured into the fraud after his company, Park Gate Business Services, failed to prosper.

Majid, of Sandford Road, Bradford Moor, pleaded guilty to allowing money to be deposited into his Lloyds TSB business account and withdrawing it.

He also admitted entering into a money laundering arrangement.

Prosecutor Tahir Khan told Bradford Crown Court yesterday the offences took place in June 2008.

Majid, of previous good character, was introduced to a man called “Moss” by a friend.

He was paid £475 for his part in the scam.

Mr Khan said Majid set up Park Gate Business Services in 2007, but it was unsuccessful.

On June 19 and 20, 2008, money from a Natwest account was transferred into his business account.

Majid suspected the cash was obtained dishonestly, but turned a blind eye. He handed over all but £475 to “Moss”.

Judge John Potter sentenced Majid to a 12-month community order with 250 hours’ unpaid work.

He must pay £5,000 compensation to the bank within three months.

The judge said Majid’s wife was in poor health and he fell prey to temptation.