SCROOGE bosses have been forced to pay £275,000 denied to workers in the North-west.

The figure, announced today, is the amount retrieved for employees who were being paid less than the minimum wage.

The National Minimum Wage Annual Report, published by the Department of Trade and Industry, reveals that there have been fewer complaints against companies than in previous years.

Bolton West MP Ruth Kelly, the Government's economic secretary, said: "I am pleased to see that the overall number of complaints is falling, but we must not be complacent.

"It is essential that we continue to root out those bad employers refusing to pay the minimum wage in order to eradicate poverty pay in the North-west.

The minimum wage, which currently stands at £3.70 for those aged 22 or over and £3.20 for 18 to 21-year-olds will increase to £4.10 an hour, with a youth rate of £3.50 an hour, from October 1.

It is estimated the increase will affect 193,000 people.

Any worker who thinks their employer may be denying them the minimum wage can confidentially check their entitlement through the Government's helpline on 0845 6000678.