A rogue roofer who left his customers around £50,000 out of pocket was sentenced last week following a successful prosecution by Cornwall Council’s Trading Standards team.

Ross Cheal, aged 46, of Angarrack, near Hayle, previously pleaded guilty to one count of fraud.

Between May 1, 2020 and April 30, 2023, Cheal, in his capacity of director of Giant Roofing Ltd, made fraudulent representations and excuses to customers for roofing works carried out at several properties.

In the seven cases highlighted by the council’s Trading Standards team, Cheal’s actions led to significant delays, poor workmanship and failures to put work right. The total financial impact to the consumers was in the region of £50,000 – with many having to pay out further monies to get the work rectified.

The Trading Standards officers found that Cheal’s conduct fell short of those normally expected by professionals in the roofing industry; leaving his customers both frustrated and out of pocket.

On Thursday, January 9, at Truro Crown Court, Cheal was sentenced to 20 months imprisonment, suspended for two years. He was also ordered to pay a total of £29,541 in compensation to his victims, and £5,000 towards the Council’s court costs.

Councillor Martyn Alvey, the portfolio holder responsible for public protection at Cornwall Council, said: “This is another unfortunate example of customers being hit financially by traders and businesses who take no care in the quality of their work, and then actively mislead customers to avoid their responsibilities.

"We always look to provide advice and guidance to businesses where possible, but sometimes there is no alternative but to take formal action, and we hope that this prosecution sends a strong message to others.”

To find out Trading Standards’ top tips for hiring tradespeople, visit www.cornwall.gov.uk