Herefordshire Council has won an enforcement case against a rogue trader found guilty of defrauding six elderly home owners, aged between 66 and 81 years old.

Martin Alun Evans, 41, from Pandy on the Herefordshire and Monmouthshire border, was given a two year suspended prison sentence on Monday, October 2nd, for defrauding six elderly home owners out of more than £27,000.

Mr Evans pleaded innocent, but was found guilty at Worcester Crown Court, following a two week trial in August. He was ordered to carry out 260 hours of unpaid work within the next 12 months. A Proceeds of Crime application was made and the financial affairs of Mr Evans and his business, Eco Solutions, will be examined with a view to obtaining compensation for the victims and court costs.

In a case taken by Herefordshire Council’s Trading Standards service, Mr Evans was found to have grossly overcharged for poor quality and unnecessary work – charging up to seven times the fair cost for wall, roof and driveway coatings.

Marc Willimont, Herefordshire Council’s Head of Regulatory and Development Management Services, said: “Tackling rogue traders who target vulnerable residents is a priority for Herefordshire Council’s Trading Standards team. Mr Evans’ prosecution sends out a message to other rogues out there to stay away from Herefordshire.”

“We would advise residents not to respond to cold callers or flyers and always get a second opinion when having extensive work done to your property or garden.”