A ROGUE trader who demanded payment in full despite leaving a widow's driveway in a worse condition than it was before has appeared in court.
Henry Smith, 33, knocked on the door of the 78-year-old widow in Hutton, Weston-super-Mare, offering to power wash, apply weed killer and seal her block-paved drive.
A contract was agreed for £250 but Smith failed to give her a legally-required notice advising her of her right to cancel within seven days.
In addition he offered a reduction in price if she agreed to let him start work the following day despite previously being advised by trading standards officers he must issue a notice of cancellation rights to his customers.
The immediate start left the lady with little time to consider what she had agreed to or seek advice and is considered an aggressive commercial practice, which is an offence.
He then demanded his money before a neighbour intervened, police were called and he left the scene.
The matter was referred to North Somerset Council's trading standards team who found the work to be of an unsatisfactory standard.
At North Somerset Magistrates' Court Smith, 33, of Otterford Caravan site, Taunton, admitted six offences relating to unfair trading practices.
Smith, who uses the trading name Protective Solutions, was given a tagged curfew for five months and ordered to pay £230 in compensation and £250 in court costs.
North Somerset Council executive member for trading standards, Councillor Peter Bryant, said: "This case shows our determination to crack down on the rogues in the home improvement trade, and those who prey on the elderly and vulnerable.
"I would also commend the lady's actions in getting a neighbour to come to her assistance and for the actions he took in supporting her and contacting the police.
"I would recommend that people use local businesses that have been recommended by friends or family.
"You should never rush into a contract but take time to think and shop around for the best deal."
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