Nathan Lee and Tarn Price appeared before Wolverhampton Magistrates Court, after they were accused of fleecing an elderly man out of £30,000 in a case brought forward by Dudley Trading Standards.

The court heard how Lee, of New Cross Street, Tipton, cold-called the Sedgley pensioner, claiming repair work needed to be undertaken to his roof.

Lee initially quoted £2,000 for the work but he continually claimed to have spotted additional issues, giving him the opportunity to charge the pensioner thousands more.

The court heard that the work was unnecessary and did not meet relevant British Standards. Nathan Lee then offered the man the services of his cousin Tarn Price, of Showell Road Caravan Site, Wolverhampton, to jet wash the roof. The elderly resident initially refused but work went ahead, and he was charged for it.

Lee was sentenced to 32 months imprisonment. Price was sentenced to 10 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, and was ordered to undertake 180 hours of unpaid work. Price was also ordered to pay £3,000 in compensation.

The rogue traders’ work has resulted in expensive damage to the roof, which now requires work at a cost of around £10,000. Costs and compensation were adjourned for Lee, who has already been ordered to paid £5,000 to cover the expenses of Dudley Council’s trading standards. Christopher King, head of trading standards at Dudley Council, said:

"This is a shocking case of two rogue traders taking advantage of an elderly and vulnerable man. The judge called Lee’s actions despicable, and we are pleased we have been able to successfully bring this case before the courts.

"This prosecution serves as a reminder that we will not hesitate to take action against dishonest traders."