BUSINESSES in Bury are being warned to beware of aggressive bogus callers claiming to be monitoring rating appeals on behalf of the Government.

There have been several cases of businessmen and women in the borough being targeted by unscrupulous companies.

Now, the Valuation Office Agency (VOA), has issued a warning urging firms to take care when appointing agents to handle appeals against their rateable values.

The VOA is the only Government agency responsible for assessing rateable values for business rates.

Their warning follows a number of serious complaints from ratepayers about so-called "aggressive" calls from people operating in the area.

They claim to be monitoring rating appeals on behalf of the Government, but this is not the case. According to the VOA, many small businesses often find themselves under pressure from firms selling rating services.

But they warn business people to make sure they know who they are dealing with before agreeing to sign a contract.

Mr Geoff Chetwood, in charge of the offices that deal with Greater Manchester, said: "If you feel your rateable value is incorrect, you can make an appeal directly to the VOA and it costs nothing.

"If you have doubts about whether the person you are speaking to is genuine, please call us."

He added: "We have a customer charter which sets out the standards under which we operate and our staff will always be happy for you to check their credentials."

Local business are advised to:

Beware the "hard sell" of telesales or doorstep salesmen and ask searching questions before signing anything.

Understand the terms of any contract offered and be aware there may be terms which commit businesses to a lengthy period of having to use the services offered.

Be suspicious of any agent who claims to be able to get a big reduction in a company's rateable value without even inspecting the property.

Check the credentials of any agent claiming to be a member of a professional body specialising in dealing with rating appeals.