An independent dealer has been jailed for six months for selling clocked cars.

Akif Butt was criticised by judge Christopher Prince for bringing the motor retail industry into disrepute, and damaging consumer faith in car dealers, after it was revealed he had a previous conviction for clocking in 2001.

Bradford Crown Court was told that Butt had traded in Shipley as Cars R Us, For Motion and latterly SH Car Sales.

Over a period of nine months from September 2005, Butt bought cars from auction and reduced their recorded mileage in order to sell them at a higher price.

During that period he sold nine cars and had another six clocked and ready for sale when police and trading standards raided his business in July 2006.

He had charged more than £20,000 for the vehicles, and made almost £4,000 profit.

Butt’s solicitor said the offences were committed because of Butt’s economic struggles.