LANDLORDS have issued a warning about a business rates scam.

It is believed up to 30 publicans in and around Colchester have been approached by a company claiming it can reduce their business rates.

They have been asked to pay £700 for the company to lodge an appeal – something they can do for free.

Chris Potts, who runs the Foundary Arms in Artillery Street, Colchester, said he was told he could get a 66 per cent reduction on his business rates.

He said: “It was very plausible. They had a glossy brochure and it all looked the part.””

However, when Mr Potts researched the company, he started to get concerned when its website and phone number did not work.

When he searched the address online, it was a block of flats.

Mr Potts has been trying to warn other publicans and businesses.

He said: “I want to let the rest of the landlords in Colchester know it’s a scam. He told me he was down here for the week, and he had signed up 30 pubs. It is a scandal. It’s hard enough at the moment without getting ripped off.”

Darren Farrell, who runs the Artilleryman, in Artillery Street, Colchester, was also approached by the company.

The deadline for appeals is March 31, and Mr Farrell believes the company is using the date to pressurise companies into signing.

He said: “Anyone who pays business rates could be vulnerable. Remember that famous old saying, if it seems too good to be true, it usually is.

“Don’t get pressured into signing anything just because of the deadline.”

The landlords are going to contact Trading Standards.

Roger Walters, county councillor responsible for Trading Standards said: “Residents and businesses should always check callers are genuine before making a purchase or disclosing personal information.”

The Gazette will name the company once we have given them full opportunity to respond.