LANCASHIRE'S Trading Standards officers are warning Preston homeowners to be on their guard against bogus gas men who use bullying tactics to get cash.

The department has received more than a hundred complaints and queries from worried residents who have been misled by ruthless door-to-door salesmen.

Callers are taking advantage of the competition to be introduced to the gas market in March when people can choose their supplier.

Some salesmen falsely say the gas supply could be cut off if the homeowner doesn't immediately sign up with their company, while others claim to be brokers who can get the best deal for a customer - for a fee of £30. Some callers have even told people that British Gas won't be trading after March!

Nationwide, there are 18 companies licensed to supply gas and around six of these are competing for Lancashire homes, including British Gas which has reduced prices to keep existing customers happy.

Chief trading standards officer Jim Potts believes people should be careful of the new system but use it in a positive light.

He said: "A lot of people will be bogged down with promotional information in the next few weeks but they shouldn't panic. It's good news for the consumer because competition means lower prices."

A British Gas spokesman said: "Our callers will show you an identity card to prove who they are. If in doubt, shut them out."

Anyone worried about bogus callers should contact Trading Standards for advice.

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