A local woman has been sentenced after admitting a string of booking frauds which left caravan owners and holidaymakers out of pocket. Alyson Perrett, 61, of Rockleigh Avenue in Aberbargoed, pleaded guilty to offences committed between 1 January 2022 and 30 September 2023 and was sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court.
Victims included caravan owners and holidaymakers
Prosecutors said Perrett, who worked as a booking agent, took money from customers and owners connected to caravan accommodation at Trecco Bay in Porthcawl and failed to pass on payments or provide the promised bookings.
There were nine identified victims in total. Two were caravan owners who employed Perrett to find customers; the other seven were individuals who paid for breaks that did not take place. The largest single loss was recorded at £4,515, while the smallest was £200. In total, losses exceeded £12,000.
- Most significant loss: £4,515
- Smallest loss: £200
- Total number of victims: 9
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Offence period | 1 Jan 2022 – 30 Sept 2023 |
| Total loss | More than £12,000 |
| Number of victims | 9 |
| Sentence | 20 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months |
Court reaction and orders
Recorder Greg Bull KC criticised the conduct of the offender in sentencing remarks, telling her the behaviour had caused considerable distress to people who had wanted a holiday. He described the crimes as being of the "meanest type" and said she should feel ashamed for the harm caused.
"Many people have problems, but they don't go around stealing money," Recorder Greg Bull KC told the court.
Perrett was given a 20‑month custodial sentence which was suspended for 18 months. She must also repay her victims and complete a range of rehabilitation measures: a 10‑day rehabilitation activity requirement and a six‑month alcohol treatment requirement.
Background and impact on victims
Prosecutors told the court that some victims were left particularly distressed. One was a carer responsible for two disabled children who had hoped to take the family away over Christmas; another had intended to make special memories with a friend who had been diagnosed with cancer. Victims described the effect of the frauds as "devastating and disheartening."
Perrett has previous convictions for drink‑driving but no prior convictions for similar offending, and her defence counsel outlined ongoing struggles with gambling and alcohol. Her barrister told the court she wishes to reform her life and needs help.
Practical note for residents
Anyone who used a private booking agent and believes they may have been affected by similar conduct is advised to retain receipts and correspondence and contact South Wales Police or Citizens Advice for guidance on steps they can take.
