A TRADER who pleaded guilty to unfair practices provided a false address on a contract and ticked the box himself that waived the rights of two customers to a “cooling off” period.

Thomas Bailey, 22, of Bowden Road, Poole pleaded guilty at Bournemouth Crown Court to four charges in relation to the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008.

The successful prosecution by Borough of Poole trading standards related to work, including surfacing driveways, he carried out at three properties, two in Broadstone and one in Merley.

The court heard that Bailey, trading as Bailey and Sons Paving and Bailey and Sons Drives, provided a false address on the contract and advertising cards. He also ticked the box on the contract which waived the rights of two consumers to their “cooling off” period without their knowledge and agreement.

He instructed his barrister that he would agree to pay his victims compensation of £3,600, £2,600 and £486. He was given a conditional discharge for one year and required to pay Borough of Poole’s legal costs.

Judge Peter Johnson said Bailey had pleaded guilty to the four counts at a relatively late stage in the trial. He also told him that while he was of previous good character, his actions had brought the trade into disrepute.

James Norman, regulatory team manager, Borough of Poole trading standards said: “We are satisfied with this sentence.

“We are committed to protecting our residents from unscrupulous traders and we hope this sends a clear message that Poole Trading Standards will come after such traders and bring them to justice.”

Cllr Xena Dion, cabinet portfolio holder said: “Anyone can be targeted by rogue traders, so if you need work done in your homes make sure you use our trading standards approved trader scheme, buywithconfidence.go.uk or call 08454 040506 for details of vetted tradesmen.”