AN energy watchdog has warned consumers in a North-East town to beware of unscrupulous sales agents operating in the area.

Energywatch North East, the gas and electricity consumer watchdog, launched its Stop Now campaign at the start of the month.

Complaints from people living in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, have highlighted the underhand methods used by some sales agents on the doorstep or over the phone.

Energywatch North East director Carole Pitkeathley said: "Stop Now answers the pleas of the thousands of consumers throughout the Aycliffe area who have been approached by sales agents using deceit to gain their consent to transfer supplier.

"There are many common approaches - agreeing to or signing for information which turns into a contract, being told blatant lies, bullying and intimidating vulnerable people."

The watchdog is calling for Ofgem, the industry regulator, to introduce a number of measures, including stronger rules for energy companies, enforcing its full range of powers and confirming its ability to impose fines.

Ms Pitkeathley said: "When consumers have been misled or lied to, they feel cheated and robbed of their name and the right to control their own domestic life.

"They are also left to feel angry and distraught, only coming to Energywatch when dialogue with the company has failed or been unresolved.

"It's about time companies realised they need to treat their customers and their complaints with honesty and respect, and they can do this by backing our campaign."