Operator 32Red has reimbursed the owners of a Londonderry-based company with almost £590,000 ($761,595), after the money was stolen and subsequently lost on its website.

Former S3 Alliance employee Tracey Curran pleaded guilty last month to six charges of fraud by false representation.

Using the company’s credit cards, she withdrew the amount between January 2016 and April 2017.

A Public Prosecution Service barrister told the Crown Court in Derry the "vast amount of the money has now been reimbursed as a gratuity" by 32Red.

A team of accountants had been engaged by both the defence and prosecution to confirm the amount had been reimbursed to the company.

Following confirmation, the case was adjourned and a plea hearing will take place in December for Curran.

32Red has received negative attention from the UK press this year, including criticism of its deal with English Championship football club Derby County, which will see Wayne Rooney wear the number 32 shirt when he joins the team in January.

In September, the operator had two online adverts banned by the Advertising Standards Authority, after they were adjudged to appeal to children.