Husband-and-wife team who operated in Bedford convicted after Trading Standards investigation

A husband and wife team have been convicted following an investigation Central Bedfordshire Council's Trading Standards Team.

Trading as SDL Landscaping Limited, Sean Lankshear, 42, and Amy Lankshear, 31, both of Winchester Road Sandy, appeared at Luton Crown Court for sentencing on March 28.

The court found Sean Lankshear guilty on two counts of fraud by false representation, contrary to the Fraud act 2006.

Amy Lankshear was found guilty on two counts of Aggressive Commercial Practices contrary to The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008.

A statement from the council says the investigation started in 2019 following a number of complaints from residents.

The council says its investigation also revealed that Mr Lankshear falsely claimed the business was VAT registered, and that information received from HMRC, proved that the representation made was false.

On further investigation, the council says it discovered that Ms Lankshear tried to frighten victims into making further payments.

Sean Lankshear was sentenced to 16 months imprisonment, suspended for two years, he received a Community Service Order of 140 hours unpaid work and was ordered to pay victim surcharge of £156 and costs of £375.

Amy Lankshear was sentenced to a Community Service Order for six months, received a curfew from 11pm-7am and an electronic tag. She was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £95 and costs of £375.

If you have a matter that you would like trading Standards to look at contact the team on 0808 223 1133 or email [email protected].