TOUGH laws aimed at ridding the streets of stalkers are set to be used against debt collectors in East Lancashire who resort to strong arm tactics.

Trading standards officers are planning to take on powers under the anti-stalking bill introduced last year.

The move follows rising concern over the alleged antics of some debt collectors in Accrington and Blackburn.

Trading standards chiefs are particularly concerned about firms who buy up leases on land and then increase charges for property owners.

They are also worried about the antics of companies who demand cash for running adverts for traders and businesses without asking permission and then demand large sums of cash.

Lancashire's chief trading standards officer Jim Potts said: "We have had particular problems in East Lancs.

"There are firms who buy up leases then use scare tactics to try and extract extortionate amounts of money from residents.

"These companies have been known to intimidate people and we have had reports of threats being used in Blackburn and Accrington."

He added: "The protection from harassment act was introduced by the Government with the aim of dealing with stalkers but there are elements of the law which could be useful to trading standards.

"If debt collectors are using scare tactics then that could be seen as financial harassment under the new law."

Lancashire trading standards department is planning to take on the extra powers in the near future.

And the move will be discussed at Lancashire County Council's fire service and public protection committee on Monday.

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