THE former deputy mayor of Winsford will have to repay more than seven thousand pounds after botching building work on the current mayor’s garage roof.

Paul Jones, formerly of Esk Road, Wharton, appeared for sentencing at Chester Magistrates court this morning, April 28, after pleading guilty to two charges of committing fraud by false representation earlier this month.

The 36-year-old, who stood down from Winsford Town Council in October 2013 citing ‘personal reasons’ has been ordered to repay current Winsford mayor, Cllr Mike Kennedy, £4,250.

Cllr Kennedy paid Jones £1,600 for a new garage roof in September 2011 that was never completed, and which the court heard was left needing thousands of pounds extra work to put right following Jones’ handiwork.

Jones has also been ordered to repay £730 to a Winsford woman to whom he promised guttering work in January 2013, but which was also never completed.

The former Wharton councillor escaped prison, but was given a six week custodial sentence, suspended for 12 months.

He was also ordered to carry out a 12-month community supervision order.

Jones must also pay Trading Standards prosecution costs of £2,295 plus a victim surcharge of £80, bringing the total amount payable to £7,355, which the court heard would be deducted from benefits he’s in receipt of.