Issued By West Yorkshire Trading Standards

GREAT NEWS FOR CONSUMERS

West Yorkshire Trading Standards Service is pleased to announce that their Consumer Helpline is to extend its opening hours. With effect from next Monday 11 February 2002 the lines will open from 8.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. Monday to Friday and 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. on Saturday.

The extension to the current operating hours will offer improved access to the Service, whereby any consumer related issues can be discussed with an experienced Consumer Services Officer, who will be able to give sound legal advice. The Helpline currently receives in excess of 75000 calls a year.

The overall aim of the Helpline is to provide consumers with advice and assistance in resolving their problems in a practical and cost effective way.  The Service also offers a personal call in appointment system, a video conference facility with linked access from each of the five Metropolitan Districts of West Yorkshire, and an informative website. The Consumer Helpline website offers a number of facilities, including basic practical advice, example letters, a complaint e-mail facility and full listings of leaflets held which can be viewed or downloaded. The website address is www.adviceline.org.uk.

For Further Information contact:

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

Paul Cooper, Divisional Manager Tel: 0113 289 8240