I’m worried my handyman has ripped me off

DEAR DEIDRE: I lent some money to someone I thought I could trust but now I’m worried that I’ve been scammed.

I’m a 86-year-old man and ever since my wife died four years ago I’ve been living alone.

I had always been quite independent, but as my health has declined I’ve found it harder to do jobs around the house.

So when a young lad knocked on my door offering to do handy work I jumped at the opportunity. He told me that he was 22 and was looking to make some extra cash.

For months he helped me, whether that was fixing broken cupboards or cutting my grass.

Over time we grew quite close, so when he told me he was having money struggles I felt compelled to help.

At first, he seemed reluctant, but after promising to pay me back I lent him £3,000.

But as soon as I gave him the money he disappeared and never came back.

Now he won’t answer any of my calls and I feel like a complete fool.
How could I be so stupid?

DEIDRE SAYS: I’m sorry this has happened to you and I can only imagine how hurt you must feel.

Try not to beat yourself up. You were being kind and thought you were helping someone you could trust.

If he still continues to ignore your calls, you can find out how to take legal action through the Gov UK’s website (gov.uk/options-if-youre-owed-money).

If nothing comes of it you may need to see this as a learning curve and be cautious lending money to anyone again.