Rogue trader fined after unfair practices in Calne driveway work
Victim compensation and penalties issued following Trading Standards investigation
A rogue trader has been fined and ordered to pay compensation after using unfair trading practices during driveway cleaning work in Calne.
Thomas Stokes, 32, from Wokingham, who trades as Swiss Clean Service, was sentenced at Swindon Magistrates’ Court on 16th January 2026.
He pleaded guilty to breaking consumer law under the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013.
Mr Stokes was ordered to pay £500 in compensation to the victim, a 74-year-old resident of Calne. He also received a fine of £333, was obligated to pay £200 in costs, and a victim surcharge of £133.
Breach of consumer rights
The case began on 4th July 2025 when Mr Stokes and an unidentified man cold-called the victim, claiming they were working nearby and offering driveway cleaning and sealing services with a five-year guarantee.
Despite initially refusing their offer, the victim was persuaded through persistent sales tactics to verbally agree to driveway work at a quoted price of £70.
However, investigators found that Mr Stokes failed to provide legally required pre-contract information under the Consumer Contracts Regulations, including cancellation rights, contract terms, and company details.
After cleaning the driveway but failing to apply any sealing, Mr Stokes escalated the agreed price to £500, which the victim paid out of fear.
He later demanded an additional £240, which was waived following dispute.
No evidence of the promised guarantee was provided, and the paperwork featured only international phone numbers.
The victim’s driveway—around 25 square metres—developed weeds within weeks of the cleaning.
Wiltshire Council’s response
Trading Standards at Wiltshire Council investigated the case and revealed that Mr Stokes had previously been advised on legal requirements about cancellation rights and fair trading obligations.
Councillor Paul Sample, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “Protecting consumers from rogue traders remains a top priority for us as a council. Unscrupulous practices not only undermine trust but often leave residents, particularly the most vulnerable, facing financial loss and emotional distress.
“We will continue to take robust action against those who break the law, and we urge anyone who believes they’ve been targeted by a rogue trader to contact the Citizens Advice consumer helpline.”
Advice for residents
Wiltshire Council issued guidance to help residents avoid falling for rogue trading tactics, including:
- Don’t agree to work on the doorstep. Take time to research before committing.
- Get at least three written quotes and compare scope, price, and timescales.
- Check credentials and look for approved trader schemes, such as Buy with Confidence.
- Know your rights: contracts made off-premises over £42 should include pre-contract information and cancellation rights.
- Report concerns by calling the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.
For additional resources, visit Wiltshire Council’s guide on choosing reputable traders.