As above, sounds like the geezer is taking the piss out of you pal...

You say he's a really good/close mate but I can't help but wonder - is it more so that he's a mate that YOU really like, but he's not actually that fussed about you? We've all had those kinda mates, a friend that you really like and wanna be good mates with, but the "love" (for want of a better word) isn't mutual and in reality he isn't that fussed about being a good mate with you, so milks whatever is coming his way....

If thats the case, wake up and ship the cunt out - you don't need that kinda "friendship" in your life pal - I know, I've been there and it's actually very self destructive......