AS a business advisor and member of the FSB I frequently come in touch with business who in the attempt to make more sales or save money, end up as prey to scams.

There is a constant stream of less than honest people who are quite happy to relieve businesses of their money and give little or nothing in return. They pray on the fact that in these hard times people are sometimes desperate and clutch at straws.

The main scams to watch for are the business rate scam, where the suggestion is made that business rates can be reduced, on a no win no fee basis.

The small print, however, (frequently unread) entitles the scammer to charge a fee for putting an appeal in. Don't be fooled. I advise people to take references and if possible deal with a local RICS member Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.

Other scams to watch for are print scams offering inclusion in wall charts diaries and such like.

They discuss your details on the phone and ask you to accept a free design should you want to take part. They have, however, recorded the call which includes your voice saying what you want in the design! Need I say more.

There is so much more to say but for now, follow this simple advice — get the name of a local person who the company approaching you has helped. If they cant do that then leave well alone. If it sounds too good to be true then it probably is.

Peter Dobbins

Sampford Terrace

Horrabridge