A rogue kitchen fitter who was an undischarged bankrupt took thousands of pounds from clients but never did the work.

Lincoln McLean, 51, of Vauxhall Crescent, Canterbury, was jailed for two years after admitting five offences under the Insolvency Act which prevents bankrupt people taking deposits for work.

McLean took nearly £30,000 from five customers and was prosecuted by the Department for Business at Canterbury Crown Court.

Oliver Saxby, defending, said McLean had found life difficult as a bankrupt and took the orders to get money.

After the case business minister Pat McFadden said: “We are determined to crack down on cheats like these who profit by deception.

“Honest people who have handed over money have suffered as a result.

“This prosecution sends a clear message to would-be fraudsters that they won’t get away with it.”