Friendly conman 'stole' licensee's identity

An over-friendly customer was after more than just drinks and hospitality during his numerous visits to a pub in Preston, Lancashire.

Con man James Shelvin deftly "stole" the identity of host Peter Hough, who ran the Smiths Arms at Lea, and went on a spending spree which included a brand new £30,000 Mercedes car.

Shelvin admitted five charges of deception when he appeared at Preston Crown Court and one charge of obtaining a pecuniary advantage by deception.

The court heard it was a full year before licensee Hough realised his identity had been stolen. The hustle only came to light when he was contacted by a company demanding money owed on a credit card for which he had not applied.

"He was a friendly, well-dressed guy, who always carried a filofax, but I later found out he'd been collecting my personal details," said Hough.

Federation of Licensed Victuallers chief executive Tony Payne said the case illustrated licensees' vulnerability to tricksters.

"I've dealt with many licensees tricked into parting with money, but never heard of anything like this," he said.

"Hosts must be wary of anyone asking too many questions, trying to sell anything, and be careful not to leave documents around."

Shelvin will be sentenced by the court on 1 May.