RESIDENTS are being warned to be wary of scams involving free gym membership.
Lewisham Council has had complaints from people who received congratulatory letters saying they have won a gift.
They are asked to call a telephone number to claim £750 worth of gym membership.
On visiting the gym to claim their gift, the consumer is asked to pay a service fee and sign paperwork.
Not until much later do those who have signed discover that they have been duped into signing up to consumer credit agreements that run for long periods, with high charges.
Under the Consumer Credit Act 1974, traders have a duty to provide potential customers with clear pre-contractual information before requesting a signature for a credit agreement.
Consumers are also entitled to be advised about their cancellation rights.
To report a trader contact the council 020 8314 7759 or visit lewisham.gov.uk/Business/TradingStandards
For advice on consumer rights, contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 or 0808 156 2245
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