West Yorkshire Trading Standards and Age Concern have joined forces to warn consumers and the elderly of the perils of sending off money to companies outside the UK who are offering substantial cash prizes or awards.

Age Concern are worried that the elderly in particular will be targeted by these companies. Involvement with such companies may result in elderly people losing money they they can not afford to part with.

Over recent years Trading Standards has seen an influx of enquiries in relation to prize draws and award mail shots that come in from companies outside the UK.

These type of mail shots make reference to the consumer being awarded a prize or award: in return all the consumer must do is send back a redemption form along with payment to ensure dispatch of their prize money. Although some of these companies may be legitimate in their offers, consumers should be aware that others are not.

If a company is legitimately offering a prize or award then consumers should not have to pay to receive it, therefore caution must be exercised. Common practise is that the mail shot is worded in such a way that it intimates that the consumer has already won a substantial sum of money, in reality the consumer is paying to enter a prize draw with the chance to win.

Companies based outside the UK are not governed by UK legislation; this makes it difficult for a consumer to gain any redress of they feel they have been misled.

Martin Wood Chief Officer of West Yorkshire Joint Services said "It is important that West Yorkshire consumers are aware of the hidden problems with regard to prize draw offers. Our Consumer Helpline is available to deal with any concerns that consumers may have. Lines are open Monday to Friday 9.30am to 6.30pm and Saturday 9.00am to 5.00pm. The contact number for the Helpline is 0113 3 848 848, alternatively there is a website address www.adviceline.org.uk or a minicom number 0113 2898 265.

For further information please contact:

David Lodge, Principal Trading Standards Office 0113 289 8243

Paul Cooper, Divisional Manager 0113 289 8240

Graham Hebblethwaite, Divisional Manager/ General Media Contact 0113 289 8218