Two men who posed as tree surgeons before defrauding elderly and vulnerable people in south Essex out of thousands of pounds have been convicted of fraud offences.

The pair were found guilty of five counts of fraud yesterday, while a third man admitted two counts of fraud earlier this year. 

Between November 9 and 16 2017, police investigated five reports that seven people aged between 79 and 95, were targeted by a group of men acting as tree surgeons.

These offences took place in Benfleet, Hullbridge and Southend after the victims called numbers of flyers on behalf of tree felling companies.

The victims were all driven or walked to their banks along with one of the suspects and were told to tell bank staff they wanted to withdraw cash for a present.

Detective Constable Rob Lewis, of Basildon CID, said: “This has been a protracted investigation with Orsbourn and Thwaites continually denying the offences – meaning the victims have had to endure further court hearings and a trial to get to the case’s conclusion today.

“I would like to thank them for their bravery and their families for their patience and support.

“These crimes have had a significant impact on the victims their health and the repercussions have an effect today.

“Fortunately, a jury were not convinced by the lies of Orsbourn and Twaites, two men who went into our communities to target its most vulnerable people.

““This case highlights the dangers of posed by cold callers who put leaflets through the letterboxes with the aim of targeting the elderly and vulnerable and I would urge everyone to remain vigilant.

“Look out for elderly friends and relatives and only engage with trusted tradespeople who have been verified and checked.”

Marc Orsbourn, 40, of The Terrace, Gravesend, was found guilty of two counts of fraud by false representation and Mark Thwaites, 40, of Childs Crescent, Swanscombe, of five counts of fraud by false representation at Basildon Crown Court yesterday.

James Cook, 31, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud earlier in the year.

All three men will be sentenced at a later date.

Keegan Waters, 19, of Hinguar Street, Shoebury, was convicted for three counts of fraud at Southend Magistrates’ Court on 10 December 2018 where he was fined and ordered to complete 150 hours unpaid work.

Jake Rush, 26, of Clay Hill Road, Basildon, was found not guilty of one count of fraud by false representation.

Following an investigation, police arrested seven men, with the two others released without charge.