Adam Lord Audience Editor

Hello, 

A fraudulent company director has been jailed for 20 months after scamming victims out of more than £63,000 – despite having no building qualifications.

Billee Hopkinson, 35, of Tag Lane, Preston, was the sole company director of Ultra Restore Limited, a home improvements business, from its creation in 2013 until it was wound up on December 30 2021.

This prosecution came about following an investigation into consumer complaints received by Lancashire County Council's Trading Standards.

According to Lancashire County Council, his fraudulent activity had such a dire impact for one victim that she had to miss out on a transplant.

As well as jail time, he’s also been disqualified from being a company director for 10 years. 

Elsewhere today, we’ve taken a look around some of the derelict and abandoned buildings in Preston. 

The past 15 years has been hard for some in the city, with many buildings in the city centre evidence of tough times - whether it be historic pubs or landmarks like the Harris Institute. 

We’ve also wrapped up the best of a bumper bank holiday weekend, with the best pics from Leyland’s Music in the Park which featured Peter Andre and others. 

Hope everyone is enjoying the sun, and thanks for reading, 

Adam

adam.lord@nationalworld.com