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Scammer targeting Suffolk businesses with fake council licence demands

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

A fraudster posing as a council worker is targeting licensed premises across Suffolk, demanding payments for supposed expired licences. Three businesses have already been targeted, with one making the payment.

The big picture: Suffolk Trading Standards and five local councils have issued an urgent warning after receiving reports of a man visiting licensed premises claiming to work for the local authority.

Why it matters: The scammer, who identifies himself as Matthew O'Donnell, is targeting licensed premises by:

  • Claiming their licences have expired

  • Demanding immediate payment of £206 for a 10-year licence

  • Providing bank account and sort code details that don't match official council records

A man on the phone at his cafe
A fraudster posing as a council worker is targeting licensed premises across Suffolk, demanding payments for supposed expired licences

How to spot the scam: Local authorities emphasise that they:

  • Never make unsolicited calls about licence payments

  • Don't send representatives to collect payments in person

  • Won't pressure businesses for immediate payment

What to do if you're targeted: Trading Standards advises business owners to:

  • Contact their local council's licensing department before making any payments

  • Report suspicious activity to Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040

  • Call their bank immediately if they've made a payment

The bottom line: All Suffolk councils – including Ipswich Borough Council, Mid Suffolk, Babergh, East Suffolk and West Suffolk – are urging business owners to remain vigilant and verify any licensing payment requests through official channels.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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