IF ever two people deserved a break, it’s Pat and Ken Hill, and today we appeal for help on their behalf.

The couple, who both struggle with health issues, enlisted a builder to carry out a massive project on their Swindon home but ended up being badly let down.

They have endured nothing less than a waking nightmare which left them more than £140,000 out of pocket and without a home fit for habitation.

The horror story they share is a heartbreaking saga of shoddy workmanship, shoddy treatment, broken promises and a financial black hole which swallowed their savings and their dreams.

It’s hardly surprising that the producers of Cowboy Builders had no hesitation in featuring the Hills in an episode of the programme, which airs next week.

The programme-makers were able to do plenty to make things better for the couple, but such were the problems with the property that the budget seemingly didn’t extend to putting everything right.

The issues remaining are a golden opportunity for other building firms across the town to come forward and do their bit - not just for the Hills but also for the reputation of the trade.

For every trader like the one who gave the couple so many problems, we know there are many, many more who pride themselves on doing excellent work at a fair price.

The tragedy of stories such as this one is that they cast a pall of suspicion over decent, skilled people.

Anybody helping the Hills is guaranteed the attention needed to help redress the balance.