Bogus Trading Standards Officer
We have had a report that an elderly lady in the Esher area was cold called by a someone posing as a Trading Standards Officer. They were allegedly checking up on some work that was previously undertaken at the property. The fraudster followed this up with a phone call to the resident saying that they had caught the rogue but needed cash (£1000's) to assist with evidence and later turned up on the doorstep to retrieve the money. Police are investigating.
Please be aware that Trading Standards NEVER cold call on residents and we always carry identification that can be quickly verified by calling Surrey County Council.
Please report these or similar instances to us via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 08454 04 05 06. The Police can also be contacted on 101 or in an emergency 999.
Watch what you sign
If you buy something or sign an agreement at your door and it costs over £35 you have a right to cancel within 7 days - this is known as the cooling off period.
The caller MUST give you a written cancellation form setting out your rights and failure to do this means that they are committing a criminal offence and the agreement isn't valid
When you sign any agreement PLEASE read it carefully .... some traders are adding in sections for you to sign to agree to the work starting within the cooling off period.
As a consumer you can request the work to start within the cooling off period, for example you may need work carried out in an emergency, but you should instigate this request and must make it in writing. You should never be asked to sign anything to agree to the work starting immediately unless you have requested this.
If you do agree to the work starting within the 7 day cooling off period and you then later change your mind, you may be liable for the reasonable cost of goods and services supplied before the end of the cancellation period.
For further advice please call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 08454 04 05 06
Group One Security
Residents may want to be aware that Group One Security has gone into liquidation and some consumers with these alarm systems are being contacted by a new monitoring company who will try to sell you a new contract.
We suggest that you take your time and get several quotes and ensure that that what you are signing meets your needs.
Surrey Police may be able to assist in offering free, independent advice via one of their Crime Reduction Advisors - please call 101 to enquire!
For further consumer advice on this subject please call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 08454 04 05 06
Cut Films Competition
Are you under 25 and live in Surrey? Are you creative? Think you could be the next Danny Boyle, Hitchcock or Spielberg?
We invite you to make an advert or short film lasting less than 2 minutes that will persuade your mates to not smoke.
This is an anti-smoking film competition. We want you to be creative, inspiring and persuasive.... and there are some excellent prizes!
If you’re a teacher or a youth worker working with young people then why not get involved?
There’s a £250 award for any school or youth club in Surrey that supports the winning Surrey Judges’ Choice film.
All films will be automatically entered into the National Cut Films competition with the opportunity to have your film showcased at BAFTA HQ.
Recalls
Asda Smart Price Potato Salad as they may contain peanuts that have not been declared.
250g pack with a use-by date 26th March 2013. Please return it to the store for a refund.