NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

PR 119 1 February 2001

European City Guide

Bath & North East Somerset Trading Standards Service have received enquiries concerning a company known as European City Guide. The company contact businesses via email inviting them to enter into their free business directory. Companies are often asked to return a Direct Debit Mandate form even if they do not wish an entry into the publication.

The Registered office of the company is based in Barcelona, although mail has been sent out from France, Switzerland, and Lichenstein.

Anyone receiving such an email, are advised that they should 1) write saying they are withdrawing/cancelling, 2) ignore the debt collection letters and 3) consider paying only if you receive a real summons. The company have been sending out mailshots for approximately 2 years and as yet no company has ever received an official summons.

If anyone would like any further information or advice please contact Bath Trading Standards, on 01225 396753.

Spokes for Housing and Public Protection Committee

Tim Ball - Lib Dem. Tel: 01225 400834 Mob: 07970 461674

Julie Stiddard - Labour. Tel:0117 986 1534

Ian Dewey - Conservative. Tel: 01225 460658

Other Information:

Kirsty Mackelworth, Enforcement Officer,Trading Standards Tel: (01225 396753)

For further information please contact: Julia Dean, Press Officer, Guildhall,

Bath. on Tel:01225 477827

communications_marketing@bathnes.gov.uk

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