Ticketing firm Ticketus have launched bankruptcy proceedings against former Rangers owner Craig Whyte.

The firm are now pursuing the Ibrox kingpin for more than £17.7 million after they successfully sued him for damages in 2013.

They claim Whyte, who bought controlling interests in the club in 2011, failed to pay up resulting in action at the High Court in London yesterday.

In a statement, Ticketus said: "Ticketus can confirm that a court session was held in London as part of the continued activity to recover funds for its investors from Mr Craig Whyte.

"[The] session was a first hearing of a bankruptcy petition, which Ticketus has brought against Mr Whyte.

"The hearing has been adjourned until a later date.

"The bankruptcy petition is a direct result of the judgment that was obtained previously by Ticketus in relation to the misrepresentation that was made by Craig Whyte during a ticket purchase agreement relating to Rangers Football Club, for which £17.7m plus interest and costs have been awarded to Ticketus.

"Mr Whyte has failed to pay the money that is due under the judgment."

The former Light Blues owner appeared in a private court in January in relation to the Ticketus case.

The petition may be  opposed and there is no bankruptcy unless  the court makes an order.