A builder accused of conning customers out of over £80,000 is to appear at crown court

James Bell, of Cumberland Street, Darlington, has been arrested and charged by police after an investigation into a string of fraud allegations.

The 49-year-old allegedly duped over 20 people out of several thousands of pounds over a six-year period.

He appeared before magistrates sitting at Newton Aycliffe earlier this month charged with 32 offences.

The fraud charges include obtaining deposits for materials not bought, delaying start dates and keeping payments for work done, providing false excuses for starting work and not attending or completing work for payments made.

It is said he participated in a fraudulent business carried on by a sole trader between July 1, 2017, and March 31, 2023.

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No pleas have been entered and the case has been moved to Newcastle Crown Court.

The next hearing will be July 3.

Bell has been granted unconditional bail until his next appearance.