logo
'Will there be accountability?': Victims of the Post Office scandal question if they'll get justice

'Will there be accountability?': Victims of the Post Office scandal question if they'll get justice

ITV News08-07-2025
Former sub-postmasters have told ITV News Central how they've experienced death, marital breakdowns, as well as emotional and financial despair as a result of the Horizon scandal.
Francis Maye, Tracy McFadden, Shane Johnson and Sally Stringer have all shared their stories on what happened to them after using the Horizon system as sub-postmasters.
It comes as the first volume of the final report for the Post Office Horizon IT inquiry had high expectations to deliver the appropriate findings for former sub-postmasters, whose lives were destroyed by the British Post Office scandal.
Chairman Sir Wyn Williams said 'a number of senior' people at the organisation were aware the system, known as Legacy Horizon, was capable of error up until it was changed in 2010, with a number of employees also aware the updated system, Horizon Online, also had bugs and defects.
At least 59 people who experienced problems with the Post Office's Horizon IT system contemplated suicide, the first tranche of a public inquiry's final report has concluded.
Lead campaigner and former sub-postmistress Jo Hamilton has said the Post Office Inquiry final report 'shows the full scale of the horror that they unleashed on us'.
The widely-anticipated report has been most eagerly awaited by the former sub-postmasters, who had been wrongly prosecuted or faced financial turmoil due to the flawed Horizon IT system.
Today the Post Office has apologised unreservedly for the suffering which Post Office caused to postmasters saying their experiences represent a "shameful period in our history".
Here at ITV News Central we have been speaking to people in our region who have been affected and they told us the impact it's had on their lives.
FRANCIS MAYE
Francis Maye bought a Post Office branch at Bidford Upon Avon in Warwickshire in March 2011. He ran it with his wife Veronica.
He had bought the Post Office for £77,000 as part of his retirement plan, but within weeks those plans began to unravel when shortfalls suddenly started appearing in their accounts.
Francis said: "It started off with small amounts. And I started to think this might be human error because it was only my wife and I.
"And then it started to get bigger and bigger. Then when it went into the hundreds of pounds I thought there's something wrong here."
Francis was convinced the problem lay with Horizon - the Post Office's new computer system. But he wasn't listened to.
The couple took out loans, extended their overdraft, maxed out their credit cards and borrowed money from family.
In 2010 Francis was told by his local area manager he was being suspended.
They had to hand over the keys to their branch. Furthermore, false rumours had spread in the village that Francis had been arrested for theft and fraud.
In 2012 Francis was declared bankrupt. The couple lost their home and were forced to sell their business.
The strain also took a toll on the couple's physical and mental health.
Francis was diagnosed with diabetes, later developed prostate cancer and now struggles with anxiety. His wife Veronica developed angina and in 2023 died after three weeks in a coma.
TRACY McFADDEN
Tracy McFadden ran a post office at Sandiacre in Derbyshire for 14 years, but her dream plan for retirement horribly unravelled when Horizon was installed.
In a scene recreated in the ITV Drama Mr Bates versus the Post Office, in one instance Tracy rang the Horizon helpline for guidance over a discrepancy of £1,000, only to see the disputed sum double to £2,000, then £4,000, then finally £16,000.
To plug the financial shortfalls Tracy had to borrow money from family, and take out loans and credit cards.
At one point opening her front door to find debt collectors outside. When her contract was terminated by the Post Office in 2014, it wasn't just the money she lost, but also her good name.
She said: "I've been stabbed in the back terribly and it's about time that knife came out.
"I want to turn round and face those people. And I'm more than happy to do that. And that's what I want ... and I need."
SHANE JOHNSON
Shane Johnson took over the Kirkby-in-Ashfield Post Office branch in 2003, he had big plans. For four years all went well until the Post Office insisted he take over the contract to run a new cashpoint at the branch.
The machine was linked to the now discredited Horizon IT system and it wasn't long before the problems began.
He told ITV News Central: "Within weeks we suffered a catastrophic loss. Things had been linked to the main computer which had never been linked to our computers before.
"So to us that was the fault. But the Post Office didn't accept that as being the fault. They said: "No. You've stolen the money."
To cover the constant losses, Shane ran up a huge overdraft, and had to plunder his savings.
At the time he was a single father-of-two and the strain soon took its toll on family life. Something to this day that brings up feelings of guilt and remorse.
Having sold the business at a loss, and adding up loss of future earnings, Shane estimates he's out of pocket by around £665,000.
He's since reached a settlement with the Post Office, but has little faith that those who caused him and his family so much pain, will ever truly be held accountable.
Shane's pessimistic when it comes to the inquiry finding justice: "Will it ever be put right? I personally don't think so. Will there ever be any accountability? I don't think so.
"Will compensation ever be fair and reasonable? I don't think so."
SALLY STRINGER
Having owned several successful businesses Sally & Geoffrey Stringer thought running a Post Office would be a sound financial move.
So when the small village branch at Beckford on the Worcestershire-Gloucestershire border became available it seemed a perfect fit.
Sally said: "It would be hundreds of pounds. It could be thousands of pounds. We balanced at the end of the first month and the stock was down by double what it should be.
"So we'd got an automatic deficit of about £4,500 which is the value of the stock to start with .. What?! .. So we knew that was a problem. There was an issue."
Eventually - worn down by stress, burdened with debt and fearful of criminal prosecution, the couple sold the shop.
The toll on their physical and mental wellbeing though continues to this day.
She said: "I still cannot and will not forgive Post Office Ltd until justice is done.
"I would like them to financially pay back every bonus, redundancy payment they're received so they know actually what it's like to have financial hardship."
A statement from The Post Office said: 'The Inquiry has brought to life the devastating stories of those impacted by the Horizon Scandal. Their experiences represent a shameful period in our history.
"Today, we apologise unreservedly for the suffering which Post Office caused to postmasters and their loved ones. We will carefully consider the report and its recommendations.'
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Five-bedroom Victorian home in Llandeilo for £695,000
Five-bedroom Victorian home in Llandeilo for £695,000

South Wales Guardian

time12 minutes ago

  • South Wales Guardian

Five-bedroom Victorian home in Llandeilo for £695,000

Listed for £695,000, the detached property is located on Latimer Road in the heart of Llandeilo. According to Clee Tompkinson-Francis, the estate agent managing the sale, the property showcases 'meticulous attention to detail' while preserving its original features. The spacious and versatile accommodation reflects a thoughtful restoration, blending timeless character with contemporary comfort. The house is adorned with period features, including decorative coving and elegant arches. A handcrafted kitchen with granite worktops adds both style and practicality to the home. The kitchen/dining area (Image: Clee Tompkinson-Francis) The property's charm extends to its external features, presenting a beautifully landscaped garden spread across multiple levels. Designed for both beauty and functionality, the garden offers defined spaces for relaxing, entertaining, and growing produce, all set against a stunning backdrop. The property boasts a lounge with a marble fireplace and a living-dining room equipped with a log-burning stove. The kitchen-breakfast room, accessible through French doors, features a handmade kitchen with granite work surfaces, a ceramic double sink, and an integrated dishwasher. The house also offers a utility room, a separate WC, and access to a cellar with three store rooms, one of which includes a wine store. The living room (Image: Clee Tompkinson-Francis) On the first floor, there are five bedrooms, two of which have ensuite bathrooms. The master bedroom features a decorative cast iron fireplace, while the other bedrooms have double glazed sash windows and picture rails. The property also includes a garage with an electric car charging point. The gardens are a standout feature, with a patio area, ornamental trees, a vegetable and fruit garden, and an outdoor snug. The house also has a log store and an outside tap for convenience. According to the estate agent, the broadband and mobile signal in the area is deemed good. The house is also conveniently located within walking distance of the charming town of Llandeilo, known for its independent shops, cafes, schools, and rail links. This makes it an attractive proposition for those seeking a home that balances historic charm with modern living in one of Carmarthenshire's most desirable locations.

Post Office set to relaunch big banking service after axing it in all branches in 2023
Post Office set to relaunch big banking service after axing it in all branches in 2023

The Sun

time13 hours ago

  • The Sun

Post Office set to relaunch big banking service after axing it in all branches in 2023

THE Post Office is bringing back a key banking service, two years after it was discontinued, The Sun can reveal. Customers will soon be able to apply for a Post Office personal loan once again. 1 It has teamed up with Lendable, a UK fintech company, to offer loans that promise quick approvals and competitive rates. The postal service stopped offering personal loans through its partnership with the Bank of Ireland in 2023 but continues to provide savings accounts. Now, new loans will be available online only, allowing people to borrow between £1,000 and £25,000, with interest rates starting at 8.1% APR. Borrowers will be able to choose repayment terms of one to five years. As an example, borrowing £5,000 over two years would mean paying £226.38 per month, with £433.12 worth of added interest. Personal loans are unsecured, meaning you don't need to offer up assets like your home or car as collateral. They're often a safer and cheaper way to borrow compared to using a credit card, an overdraft, or payday loans, which can charge interest rates of up 1,250%. consolidating debts. A good credit score helps you get the best interest rates, but the Post Office's partnership with Lendable will use AI to look beyond this metric, making it easier for more people to qualify for better rates. If approved for a new Post Office loan, most borrowers will get their money in under a minute. Ross Borkett, Post Office banking director, said: "We are delighted to launch our online personal loans offering with Lendable and give our customers the ability to take out a loan that covers their needs in minutes. "By developing our commercial offering, we will generate income to be shared with postmasters and help sustain their presence in communities nationwide." The loans will be available directly through the Post Office website and on comparison websites. What is a personal loan? A PERSONAL unsecured loan is a type of borrowing where you receive a lump sum from a lender and agree to repay it in instalments, along with interest. Unlike secured loans, it doesn't require any collateral, such as a house or car. Approval is based on your creditworthiness, income, and existing debts, making it a riskier option for lenders and potentially more expensive for borrowers. Despite this, personal loans can be cheaper than credit cards and overdrafts, but it's not always guaranteed. While personal loans often have lower interest rates, especially if you have a good credit score, the overall cost depends on several factors like the loan term, fees, and your individual circumstances. Credit cards and overdrafts can be more expensive due to high interest rates and fees, especially if you only make minimum payments or exceed your overdraft limit. It's essential to compare the total cost of borrowing, including all fees and interest, before making a decision. How does it compare? Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at said: "Borrowers might like to choose the Post Office for ease and due to trust, but it is always essential to shop around for a low-rate loan and not just take the first quote they get, even if it feels like a hassle to look elsewhere. One of the lowest advertised loan rates on the market is 5.9% APR, such as with M&S Bank, Santander and TSB. However, Rachel said: "Borrowers do need to keep in mind that these are advertised rates and, out of all successful applicants, a minimum of 51% are offered this rate." Sarah Coles, Head of Personal Finance at Hargreaves Lansdown, suggests considering credit unions when comparing options. Their interest rates are capped, making them a cost-effective alternative to payday loans, credit cards, or overdrafts. Rates range from 12.7% APR (1% monthly) to a maximum of 42.6% APR (3.5% monthly), and some even offer same-day funding. If you're thinking about using a personal loan to consolidate debts, it's important to address overspending habits first - otherwise, you could end up in a worse financial situation later. Sarah said: "This type of loan can be great for those who need money urgently, but borrowers must think carefully before taking on debt. "Consider whether you need to borrow, whether you can afford repayments, and whether it's the best option for your circumstances." To find the best rates visit price comparison websites including and How to get free debt help There are several groups which can help you with your problem debts for free. Citizens Advice - 0800 144 8848 (England) / 0800 702 2020 (Wales) StepChange - 0800138 1111 National Debtline - 0808 808 4000 Debt Advice Foundation - 0800 043 4050 You can also find information about Debt Management Plans (DMP) and Individual Voluntary Agreements (IVA) by visiting or Speak to one of these organisations - don't be tempted to use a claims management firm. They say they can write off lots of your debt in return for a large upfront fee. But there are other options where you don't need to pay.

UK's Informa boosts revenue forecast on robust demand for live events
UK's Informa boosts revenue forecast on robust demand for live events

Reuters

time3 days ago

  • Reuters

UK's Informa boosts revenue forecast on robust demand for live events

July 23 (Reuters) - British events and academic publishing group Informa (INF.L), opens new tab raised full-year underlying revenue growth forecast on Wednesday, betting on strong demand for live trade shows and business events, sending its shares up nearly 7%. Trade shows have become more appealing to businesses seeking access to markets, customers and competitors as they navigate international geopolitical tensions, Informa CEO Stephen Carter told Reuters, after the group's profit and revenue each grew more than 20% during the first half of 2025. "(Events) have become more valuable rather than less valuable, because it's a route to market access, it's a route to customer access, it's a route to competitor access as well," Carter said. The company expects to post annual underlying revenue growth of around 6%, compared with its previous forecast of a 5% rise. Its shares were up about 6% at 875.4p, as of 0919 GMT, and were the top performer on the FTSE 100 index. Informa, however, expects revenue from its academic markets division, Taylor & Francis, to be lower in 2025, after $75 million in one-off data licensing agreements boosted sales in 2024. It also expects annual revenue from its newly formed TechTarget division, which provides marketing services to enterprises, to be broadly flat amid subdued market conditions. TechTarget's customers are currently redirecting budget from marketing to AI development, which is temporarily dampening demand for Informa's services, Carter said. "If we can have a successful foundation year in 2025, we'll see (TechTarget) business get back into proper growth in 2026 and 2027." Informa reported an adjusted operating profit of 578 million pounds ($782.44 million) for the six months ended June, compared with 466.9 million pounds a year ago. It also extended its share buyback with 150 million pounds planned for the second half of the year. ($1 = 0.7387 pounds)

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store