CONSUMER watchdogs are warning small companies to be on their guard against telesales scams.

Hartlepool Trading Standards has heard from a number of companies that have been contacted by cold-callers asking them to place adverts in publications allegedly supporting charitable organisations.

The companies were later shocked to receive an invoice from the telesales people saying they had agreed to a contract and that the verbal agreement was recorded on tape.

Michael Welsh, Hartlepool Borough Council's principal trading standards officer, said: "The firms that have contacted us say they definitely did not agree to any contract and only asked for further information.

"Instead, they find themselves faced with an invoice which the telesales company then vigorously pursues for payment.

"In some cases, if the firm does not pay, it is bombarded with threats of legal action.

"Be wary if contacted by a cold-caller.

"It is possible to make a legally-binding contract by telephone, so if you do not want to get involved in a contract, you should always make that absolutely clear to the caller.

"If you do subsequently receive an invoice for something which you did not agree to, contact your solicitor and call the trading standards team.

"You may receive threatening mail and phone calls, but my advice is to stand your ground and do not pay. Usually these are idle threats and the telesales firm will not take any legal action."

Hartlepool Trading Standards can be contacted on (01429) 523362.