A ROGUE trader who cheated customers out of thousands of pounds has avoided jail after his father agreed to repay some of the victims.

But a judge told Colin Luton: "You are not to think you have bought your way out of trouble."

Judge Anthony Balston had delayed sentence to enable the 34-year-old kitchen firm boss to obtain proof that almost £9,000 would be paid.

Maidstone Crown Court heard that Luton traded as a supplier and fitter of kitchen units from the end of July 2001.

Dominic Connolly, prosecuting, said the shop operated from Chatham High Street but he left in December that year owing substantial rent.

Luton accepted money from customers but they did not get their new kitchens.

He admitted four charges of obtaining a money transfer by deception and four of obtaining property by deception.

Mr Connolly said Luton took money from customers and gave installation dates but did not complete the work.

One victim was Susan Ewings, a single mother on incapacity benefit.

Luton quoted her £3,650 and asked for cash to guarantee fitting by a certain date. He even drove her to the bank so that a deposit could be paid.

Others handed over cash and when they did not hear anything went to Luton's shop only to find he had disappeared.

Phillip Bromley worked for Luton as a fitter but quit with wages owing to him. He went to the police because he was concerned about the way the business was being run.

When arrested in March 2002, Luton, of Love Lane, Faversham, denied deliberately intending to deprive customers of money. The total loss Luton admitted was £8,907. The overall debt was £15,000.

Mr Connolly said Luton had convictions for dishonesty.

Dominic Webber, defending, said Luton was guilty of reckless deception.

His father was successful in the same business and had employed him for eight years.

"He is reluctant to bail out his son," said Mr Webber.

"He would be prepared to underwrite matters in his guilty pleas. He will pay it in one single sum, if it would assist."

When the judge adjourned sentence last Monday (March 22), he said: "One has, with some reluctance, to bear in mind the state of the prisons at the present time and payment would assist him considerably."

After hearing the money had been obtained, Judge Balston on Thursday (March 25) imposed a 100-hour community punishment order and a community rehabilitation order for two years.

Luton will also have to attend 24 sessions of a Think First programme.