A rogue trader from Gwalchmai who targeted vulnerable residents has been jailed for a year.

Paul Anthony Evans, who ran a home improvement business with his son, used aggressive sales tactics and charged execessive fees for poor quality work.

Caernarfon Crown Court heard Evans (51) had already attracted the attention of Trading Standards officers on Anglesey, but he ignored a warning to stop his behaviour.

He pleaded guilty to two counts of participating in a fraudulent business and further charges of knowingly engaging in an unfair commerical practice and aggressive trade practices.

Evans, who had traded as P. Evans Home Improvement, used cold calling and touting for work between November 2021 and 2024.

He had previously assured Trading Standards to stop using such tactics and repay an earlier victim - but the court heard Evans failed to comply and continued operating in the same manner, leading to further complaints, and ultimately, prosecution.

He had also been convicted of similar fraud offences in 2013.

Sentencing him, Judge Timothy Petts said Evans' "sustained fraudulent aggressive behaviour" highlighted the "very worrying pattern" of his repeated offending despite being aware he was already under scrutiny from council officers.

He will serve at least half of his sentence in prison and must also pay £21,376 in compensation to his victims - at the rate of £300 a month - once he is released.

Last month, his son, Paul Lennon Evans, was given a suspended 36-week prison sentence after pleading guilty to fraud by failing to provide cancellation rights and failing to demonstrate professional diligence 

He must also pay £3,089.34 in compensation - at the rate of £200 per month - and undergo 80 hours of community service and a rehabitilation programme.

Both men were also banned from cold calling under three-year criminal behaviour orders, which also include carrying out work on Anglesey without notifying Trading Standards and accepting payment for work before it's completed to the customers satisfaction.

Reacting to the sentencing, Cllr Nicola Roberts, who holds the public protection portfolio at Anglesey Council, said: "Exploiting vulnerable individuals is unacceptable and will not be tolerated."

"We commend the bravery of the victims who supported Trading Standards officers in bringing these offenders to justice."

"We encourage any residents who have concerns about the practices of a trader to contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133. Taking action not only helps protect you but also safeguards others in our community."