Hullavington couple convicted for scamming homeowners with substandard work
Court sentences follow investigation into rogue trading in Wiltshire
A couple from Hullavington has been sentenced to suspended imprisonment for multiple trading offences at Salisbury Crown Court.
Diane Barrow, also known as Dee Gilbert, and Martin Gray, both aged 57, were found guilty of carrying out poor quality work at properties across Wiltshire.
The investigation by Wiltshire Council’s Trading Standards team revealed the offences took place in Malmesbury, Portishead, Chippenham, and Royal Wootton Bassett.
In total, six homeowners fell victim to the scam, with four being elderly. They paid for work that was either unfinished, inadequately executed, or never started. Payments for materials also went unfulfilled.
Barrow received a sentence of eight months, suspended for two years, while Gray was handed 41 weeks, similarly suspended. Both were required to complete 30 rehabilitation activity days and fined £600 each, with non-payment resulting in 28 days in custody.
Scamming Homeowners Across Wiltshire
Between January and May 2023, a 75-year-old homeowner from Malmesbury paid £10,887 for incomplete works.
In April 2023, a 43-year-old man paid £1,531 for upfront costs on windows and doors never delivered. An 84-year-old from Portishead received substandard work after seeking quotes online for painting and maintenance.
A Chippenham resident, aged 63, was charged £6,500 initially and then £14,000 for incomplete conservatory repairs. The surveyor found significant risks in the work's quality.
Another case involved an 85-year-old neighbour who paid £2,000 for an unsupplied conservatory roof.
By October 2023, Barrow claimed an employee stole funds—a claim unverified or reported.
Misleading Practices and Legal Consequences
Both Barrow and Gray failed to respond to victims’ attempts to resolve the issues.
Cllr Paul Sample, Cabinet Member for Environment, commented on the case: “This case highlights the devastating impact rogue traders can have on vulnerable residents. These two individuals exploited trust and left a trail of financial and emotional harm behind them."
He urged using approved trader schemes like “Buy With Confidence,” to ensure hiring businesses that are safe, fair and reliable.
Anyone suspecting involvement with rogue traders should contact Citizens Advice at 0808 223 1133.