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Samantha Brook

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Most of us spend our lives in the pursuit of Happiness. If you are among the many who are on that journey, then this book is what you need.

Scammer targeting Suffolk businesses with fake council licence demands

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Happiness Club

Proud supporters of free and independent local journalism in Ipswich

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.

Samantha Brook

Get the book!

Most of us spend our lives in the pursuit of Happiness. If you are among the many who are on that journey, then this book is what you need.

Happiness Club by Samantha Brook

Today's supporter

Happiness Club

Drawing from her personal transformation journey, Samantha offers evidence-based coaching and holistic wellness services that address our community's growing mental health challenges.

With mounting pressures from the cost of living crisis and post-pandemic stress affecting many Ipswich residents, Samantha's work focuses on practical tools for building resilience and joy in everyday life.

Through one-to-one coaching, workshops, and workplace wellbeing programs, she helps individuals and organisations develop sustainable happiness practices.

Learn more

Billy McNicholl murder investigation continues as second suspect bailed

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Happiness Club

Proud supporters of free and independent local journalism in Ipswich

Police are continuing their investigation into the death of William McNicholl as a teenage suspect becomes the second person to be released on bail. The 63-year-old was found dead at his Hawthorn Drive home on New Year's Day.

Why it matters: Two suspects have now been released on bail as Suffolk Constabulary's Major Investigation Team continues to investigate Mr McNicholl's death.

The big picture: A post-mortem examination revealed William McNicholl, known as Billy, died from head injuries and a stab wound.

William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog
William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog

Latest developments:

  • The 17-year-old boy arrested on Wednesday has been bailed with conditions until 17 March

  • He was questioned at Martlesham Police Investigation Centre for two days

  • A woman in her 50s, previously arrested on suspicion of murder, remains on bail until 9 April

What's next: Officers continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward with information about the case.

Bottom line: Anyone with information should contact police quoting reference 37/162/25, either through their Major Incident Portal or by calling 101. Anonymous reports can be made to Crimestoppers.

Samantha Brook

Get the book!

Most of us spend our lives in the pursuit of Happiness. If you are among the many who are on that journey, then this book is what you need.

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