Relief for man after car dealer went bust with £12,000 of his money

Colin Carney turned to Middlesbrough Council's trading standards team when internet-based DC Cook Direct ceased trading.

He entered into a contract with the firm, paying a deposit of £500 on his credit card and agreeing to pay the balance of £11,898 once the vehicle was ready for collection.

In July last year, Mr Carney handed over the cash but when he tried to collect the vehicle he was faced with repeated delays.

In November the company admitted that they could not fulfil the contract and a refund would be provided.

But in December Mr Carney was contacted by a firm of administrators who told him DC Cook had ceased to trade.

"I was devastated by this news," said Mr Carney, who lives in Nunthorpe.

"I had been waiting for this car for months and to now learn that not only would I not be getting the car but that I had lost all my money too. It felt like I had lost everything."

Mr Carney contacted the Consumer Direct advice line for help and, with further assistance from Middlesbrough Council's Trading Standards Advice Service, discovered he was able to get all of his money back.

Trading Standards were able to advise Mr Carney that Halifax, his credit card provider, should return all the monies paid to DC Cook, even though only £500 was paid on the card.

Councillor Barry Coppinger, Middlesbrough Council's executive member for community protection, said: "These are difficult times for consumers as well as traders with everyone feeling the pinch.

"Consumers need to know how to carry on buying while protecting their hard earned cash."

If you find yourself in a similar situation or need more advice about purchasing goods using a credit card then Consumer Direct can be accessed by telephone on 08454 04 05 06 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6.30pm and Saturdays, 9am to 1pm.

For face to face advice and support, visit the Advice Centre at 51 Corporation Road, Middlesbrough, Monday to Friday 9.30am to 1pm.