An Australian judge has ruled against the widow of “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin in the first stage of a case seeking more than €1.56m in allegedly unpaid debts.

A close friend of “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin said today that he was appalled at reports of people illegally cashing in on the exuberant entertainer’s legacy.

The widow of “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin thanked staff at his wildlife park today, in her first comments on his death, as she considered whether to accept the offer of a state funeral or hold a more private ceremony.

A 176-year-old tortoise, believed by some to have been owned by Charles Darwin, has died at the Australian zoo owned by “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin.