A suspect has pleaded not guilty to the kidnap of a wealthy businessman from the Brocket Hall golf course in Welwyn Garden City.

Tianfu Guo, 35, also denied causing grievous bodily harm to a man who was allegedly taken from golf course on October 24 last year and driven away.

He was found the next day.

Guo, of no fixed address, appeared at Huntingdon Crown Court today, having been transported from Wormwood Scrubs prison in London.  He was wearing an grey tracksuit and was aided in the court by a Mandarin interpreter.

He denied three charges:

  • Conspiracy to kidnap that, along with others unknown, on or before 24th October 2023 conspired to take a man against his will.
  • Conspiracy to blackmail that on or before 25th October 2023 with persons unknown made an unwarranted demand for money with menaces from the victim.
  • Causing grievous bodily harm between 24th and 26th October 2023 with persons unknowns cause grievous bodily harm.


Guo had sacked his former defence team. Barrister Thomas Beardsworth said the firm Saunders was now being replaced by A. Vincent, who were being paid for privately.

His new barrister Andy Hill was given until January 30 to prepare a defence statement.

Recorder William Hansen said a five to seven day trial is due to take place on April 8. The venue has not yet been set.