Tips to avoid scam attempts on pubs
A pre-Christmas publishing scam targeting pubs has been reported by an experienced Shropshire licensee — who didn't fall for it.
John Ellis, owner of the Crown in Oakengates, said this particular scam is fronted by a Mr Jones, who has a slight Merseyside accent.
The cold caller will claim to be from the "Fire and Police Association" and attempt to part licensees from their cash in return for a mention in the "Fire Safety Handbook" and "Pre-Christmas don't drink and drive campaign".
Ellis, who fell for a similar scam in his first year running a pub 15 years ago, checked with his local fire station and was told there was no such organistaion as the Fire and Police Association.
"According to Trading Standards, scams like these commonly happen at this time of year," said Ellis.
"The best thing to do is ask straight away what the person is selling. If they are genuinely trying to sell you something they won't mind telling you.
"I have also tried asking for a name, address and telephone number, which caused them to hang up."
Ellis also recommended licensees visit www.safefromscams.co.uk and refer to the Business Publishing Scams section.
"I hope this can save someone some money," he said.
