Police seek gardener in connection with fraudulent trading

They wish to speak to Gary Smith, 41, whose last known address was in Lancing, West Sussex, in connection with several incidents committed in Seaford, Hove and Portslade since last summer.

Trading as a gardener and landscaper, he is believed to approach potential clients with favourable quotes for work and then seek money upfront for materials.

Work is then either not done at all or carried out inadequately, leaving victims out of pocket.

Leaflets headed Cherry Tree or Oaklands are used to advertise his prices for garden maintenance, mention over 15 years of experience and that references and free estimates are available.

Detective Constable Carmelle Kemp, of Brighton CID, said: “We want to hear from anyone who may have had one of these leaflets through their door.

“We’d also like to talk to anyone who may know Mr Smith or his current whereabouts, or who may have had dealings with him of a similar nature.”

Anyone with information is asked to email [email protected] or phone 101, quoting serial 834 of 20/08/2015.

Alternatively they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or by visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.

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