Rogue trader sent to jail following multiple fraud offences

Dudley Council brought forward the case against Mr Millward of Hunnington Terrace Road in Cannock.

Often known as Tony, the court heard that he took substantial deposits from consumers for driveway and landscaping work that was either never completed or was carried out to a substandard level.

An investigation began in June 2023 after a Dudley resident reported paying Millward, who operated under the names Drive Seal, Bespoke Driveways and Prestige Resin Driveways, £7,500 for work that was never finished.

Despite repeated attempts to contact Mr Millward, the work remained incomplete. Meanwhile he had provided a business leaflet with a false address and offered various excuses, including personal bereavements and issues with his work vehicle.

Further complaints were identified across the West Midlands, revealing a pattern of similar conduct. Victims reported paying deposits ranging from £360 to £1,500 for work that was either not started or poorly executed. 

During the investigation, Mr Millward falsely told trading standards officers that his partner had just passed away.

Having pleaded guilty to an offence of fraudulent trading under the Fraud Act 2006 at Dudley Magistrates Court on 12 March 2025, the matter was sent up to Crown Court for sentencing.  

On 16 May 2025, Recorder Nixon made an order for Millward to pay £32,000 to compensate his victims before his sentencing or else face the prospect of a custodial sentence.

Michael Brereton, director for development and regulation, said:

"We take reports of rogue trading extremely seriously, and this case is a stark example of a trader repeatedly taking money from residents while failing to deliver.

“Mr Millward’s actions have left a trail of financial loss and distress across Dudley and the West Midlands.

“Despite being given opportunities to provide evidence of mitigating circumstances and to repay the money owed, Mr Millward had failed to cooperate.

“Residents deserve to feel confident when hiring tradespeople, and we urge anyone with concerns to report them to us. We will not hesitate to act where consumer protection laws are breached."

Residents can report issues with tradespeople to the Citizens Advice consumer services helpline on 0808 223 1133 or via their website www.citizensadvice.org.uk