Joined your expat site in order to post this warning concerning a British builder believed to have moved to Spain.
His name is Raymond Winesten aged 61, Essex boy from Chelmsford area.  I am expat in France and, along with at least 12 others plus numerous French suppliers ended up out of pocket as a result of Winestein failing to complete work or botching the job.  Total debit estimated in excess of 500k?.  After doing an overnight runner from France in Nov 07, he was last spotted in Chelmsford but ran off when he realised he had been spotted.  Has all the kit, dumper truck, kubota digger, fancy trailers and cement pump.  Last known vehicles, VW Tourag and Renault van, wife has a VW beetle new shape.
A big if I know, however, if anyone has had dealings with this guy and knows where he is please do let me know.  Whatever you do do not give him money up front I promise you you will regret it.
Thanks for taking the trouble to read this

G