A statement by Healthcare Locums (HCL) said: “She [Kate Bleasdale, executive vice chairman] is delighted that this dispute has been resolved. HCL takes very seriously the protection of the assets of the company and action to protect these assets is unfortunately sometimes necessary.”

Bleasdale told Recruiter from her celebrations on the day of the announcement that the conditions of the settlement mean she cannot give further details about the case.

However, she added: “When you set up a recruitment business the only assets you have are your database of candidates, your recruiters and your client contacts. HCL has been very determined in making sure that those assets are protected and we are going to continue to do that.

“HCL built a business from a startup to the largest health and social care agency in the UK. If we feel there is any threat to our business because our assets are being undermined then we’ll take action against the perpetrators. This case is all about making sure we have protected our assets.”

The management team at First Call Medical were unavailable for immediate comment.