The story told by a Swindon fraudster who conned members of the public at motorway service stations has been revealed.

Charlotte Branford, 41, of Godolphin Close, was investigated by Thames Valley Police and was found to have exploited people for money.

According to Thames Valley Police, Branford approached her victim and explained that she had travelled to fill up with petrol and realised her purse was not in her bag.

She then also said that her phone had been damaged, meaning that she couldn’t pay.

Swindon Advertiser: Branford claimed her phone was broken as part of her false narrative.Branford claimed her phone was broken as part of her false narrative. (Image: TVP)

The victim was then asked for money and told by Branford that she would repay them, instead providing a fake name and contact number.

A statement from the police said: “She preyed on and took advantage of people’s good nature.”

Branford pleaded guilty to three counts of fraud by false representation offences when she appeared at Swindon Magistrates' Court on Thursday, January 12, receiving a two year Criminal Behaviour Order.

“The CBO, which is in place for two years, prohibits Branford from going to or entering Membury service grounds, Leigh Delamere service grounds and Chieveley service grounds, including the petrol forecourts.

“It also prohibits her from approaching any member of the public to solicit money or goods using a false story within Berkshire and Wiltshire.”