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Ref: 324/08             2 October 2008

Launch Of Cheshire Trader Register Scheme

County Council Trading Standards officers are working with Age Concern Cheshire to launch a trader register of home improvement businesses.

The Cheshire Trader Register scheme aims to give information to consumers on businesses who, whilst not approved by Trading Standards, have all signed up to an agreed Code of Practice and are committed to high standards of customer service.

Trading Standards advise Cheshire residents not to buy goods or services at the door but many consumers find it difficult to find a reliable builder, roofer or gardener and risk becoming a victim of doorstep crime.

The Register will include plumbers, electricians, roofers, painters and decorators, gardeners and general builders. Traders on the Register agree to carry out work with reasonable care and skill and to deal with customers fairly and honestly.

Executive Member for Community and Communications Nora Dolphin said: “I am very pleased that Cheshire Trading Standards and Age Concern are working together to launch this Register.

“The scheme will support local traders and will help the most vulnerable members of our communities to find a reliable trader to carry out work in their home or garden"

Alison Kettlewell, Deputy Chief Executive of Age Concern Cheshire said: “We are delighted to be involved in such an essential project for older people in the county and look forward to helping older people to access traders who are committed to high standards of service.”

Finding a trader on Cheshire Trader Register is both free and simple. Older and vulnerable consumers can ask for a list from Age Concern Cheshire on 01606 881668 or Age Concern East Cheshire 01625 612958 or alternatively consumers can visit the Trading Standards website www.cheshire.gov.uk/tradingstandards

Trading Standards is looking for more Cheshire businesses to join the register. If you run a home improvement or gardening business that is committed to honest, fair trading then call Trading Standards Business Support on 01244 973708 or visit the website. Registration is free of charge.

To report suspected rogue traders or for general advice on consumer issues contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.

SW/KM

PHOTO CAPTION: Alison Kettlewell From Age Concern Cheshire And Angela Jones And Stephanie Scott Both From Trading Standards At The Launch Of The Cheshire Trader Register Scheme.

NOTE TO EDITORS: For More Information Please Contact Angela Jones From Trading Standards On 01244 973675, County Councillor Dolphin On 01606 852526 And Alison Kettlewell, Age Concern On 01606 881668.