Some of the businesses contacted are based at Machynlleth

Eight complaints have been made by businesses in Powys who say they have been targeted by telesales representatives for fake advertising space.

They say that they received a 'cold call' offering advertising space in crime and drug prevention literature run by Dyfed-Powys Police.

But trading standards officer in Powys Council have issued a warning, which is supported by Dyfed-Powys Police, following the complaints from companies in Machynlleth and Welshpool.

A statement by Powys Council's trading standards department said that telesales representatives are offering advertising spaces in various directories and on occasions claim to be producing diaries on behalf of police or schools.

I had a phone call from someone claiming they were from the police asking us to advertise for literature backing a drug awareness campaign. Richard Gott, businessman

"There is no law preventing traders from contacting people by telephone offering this type of service," said a spokesman from the council.

"But obviously all statements or claims must be true and the terms of the contract fulfilled.

"In many cases the companies tape record the telephone conversation and will attempt to use this as evidence of a legally binding contract," he added.

Richard Gott, director of TV production company, Pixel Foundry was contacted by telesales representatives.

"I had a phone call from someone claiming they were from the police asking us to advertise for literature backing a drug awareness campaign," said Mr Gott.

Trading standards claims the companies tape record phone conversations

He told the callers he would think about it.

"But in the meantime I had a warning from a television body about these calls so I contacted the police."

Joe Lloyd of computer game company Gamepad in Welshpool was asked to advertise in a crime prevention booklet to be distributed across Powys in the new year.

"I told them that I wanted to discuss the matter with my partner before advertising with them," said Mr Lloyd.

"But I was shocked when I got an invoice for �58."

Trading standards officers advised him not to pay the company.

"Businesses should also be sure that they are aware of exactly what they are agreeing to and to what price," said a spokesman from Powys Council.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesman said: "We urge anyone with concerns about requests for money for sponsorship purposes to ascertain who is asking for the money and for what.

"They can then contact the police on 01267 222020 to check whether or not the caller is genuine."