Cumberland Council’s Trading Standards team successfully prosecuted a trader who conned an elderly Silloth resident out of more than £5,000.

Maurice James Jesse Penfold pleaded guilty at Carlisle Crown Court, on November 21, to six offences under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Act 2008.

The sentence was passed on Wednesday, January 10, that Maurice James Jesse Penfold, of London, was ordered to pay a fine of £2,400 and to pay the victim £5,350 compensation.

Councillor Bob Kelly, Executive Portfolio Holder for Policy and Regulatory Services, said: “I’m really pleased to see that Mr Penfold has been successfully prosecuted for this crime.

“I hope that this successful prosecution will act as a deterrent to any other rogue traders who are taking advantage of Cumberland residents.

“This type of activity will not be tolerated in Cumberland.

“Our trading standards team is incredibly proactive and diligent and will take action against anyone thinking of taking advantage of our residents.”

The charges related to property maintenance and upgrade jobs Mr Penfold carried out in August 2021 when the victim paid £5,350.

Employed to increase the insulation and to soundproof the elderly gentleman’s static home, he quoted high prices for unnecessary work and carried out the work to a low standard.

The materials used were inferior to those he quoted for.

Mr Penfold claimed:

• to have 25 years’ experience and to be a member of the Guild of Master craftsmen.
• the roof coating would be 3mm thick.
• work carried out would decrease heat loss by at least 40 percent
• the price charged was fair and reasonable
• the products used were of good quality

All claims were untrue.

To report a rogue trader in Cumberland, call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.