An investigator who helped expose one of the largest counterfeit scams in the UK has been received a prestigious commendation for his achievements.

Jon Ashby from Brent and Harrow Trading Standards was given the accolade by the Anti Counterfeiting Group following his role in uncovering the £17m fake goods swindle which took place in Alperton.

Last month, Nirmon Grover, 44, from Southall, and Ajit Arura, 36, from Newport, were jailed for selling the counterfeit goods including fake designer trainers and handbags, following a five-year investigation by Mr Ashby and his colleagues.

Ms Ashby has also been involved in a number of other successful counterfeit clampdowns on fake goods in the borough and has been especially instrumental in reducing illegal trade in the now closed Wembley Market.

Cllr Keith Perrin, lead member for environment at Brent Council, said: “This award shows that our trading standards service is doing a superb job. We are committed to keeping illegal counterfeit goods off the streets and it is important that we prosecute people who look to gain from the proceeds of criminal activity.”

Related link: Jail for two men behind £17m counterfeit goods business based in Brent