Alleged fraudster Simon Regan of Angel Coatings, who supplied resin driveways on the Isle of Wight, gambled away nearly £200,000.

Mr Regan, of Bradfield Road, Barrows Green, Crewe, is on trial at Southampton Crown Court this week.

The 57-year-old denies three counts of fraudulent trading, between September 9, 2014, and March 14, 2021.

The counts are contrary to section 993 of the Companies Act 2006.

They relate to three companies: Angel Coatings, Angel Coatings Resin Drives, and National Resin Drives.

Summing up the case, Judge Brian Forster went through a series of statements from complainants over the years – around 40 in total.

The court heard many of them had been attracted to the works because of the promise of a ten-year guarantee.

A series of statements from consumers who had dealings with Angel Coatings were read out in court.

Many of them said they had been initially satisfied with the works carried out, but expressed concerns as the cracks started to show, both figuratively and literally.  

Problems which developed over time included cracks, sinking, discolouration and crumbling resin, bumpy surfaces, and weeds.

One said their driveway broke apart within six weeks, and when a second drive was installed, the same issues resurfaced.

Others took issue with the initial works, complaining that the surface was slippery, the resin wasn’t thick enough, or that the works were unfinished.

Many of them also spoke of their struggles in contacting Mr Regan, and failures to carry out remedial works.

During a series of inspections, the works were described as unsatisfactory, poor practice, visually poor, carried out at an unsuitable location, or falling below the standard of a competent installer.

Some of the complainants reported that Mr Regan had made promises to return to their properties to carry out remedial work, but never did, giving a myriad of excuses such as the weather being too hot or too wet, or that the company van had broken down.

One of the complainants called the excuses “farcical” and described their driveway as an eyesore.

Some of the complainants had come across the company through cold calls.

Consumers were quoted varying sums of money for the works, ranging from £3,000 to £27,000.

Some complained that their deposits had not been returned following cancellations, and Mr Regan was also accused of blackmail and threatening legal action against those who gave negative reviews on social media.

The court heard an examination of Mr Regan’s bank account revealed a significant gambling addiction, resulting in a loss of approximately £188,000.

The trial continues.