Bland originally worked at Rugby School before he became the chief coach to the British Olympic team from 1968 to 1972.
He was dropped from the role due to allegations of corruption arising from his employment by the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) as Facilities Advisor.
[1] It was alleged that Bland took secret commissions from suppliers who were then recommended by him in his position as facilities advisor.
[2][3] Bland then set up a company (Sportizus Ltd) dealing in celebrity memorabilia which, although initially successful, eventually went into administration in 2006.
[citation needed] In 2011 Bland won a court case against Coventry City Council claiming that his Mercedes had been damaged by potholes.