A PHONE line to take consumer complaints has fielded an average of 12,000 calls a month in the Yorkshire and Humber region in its first six months.
Consumer Direct is a helpline funded by the Government to give consumer advice.
It was set up to take the pressure off trading standards services and give them more time to investigate rogue companies and traders.
Issues and complaints tackled by Consumer Direct include shoddy household repairs, questions about buying second-hand cars and worries over junk mail.
People can ring for advice if they feel they have been ripped off or for information on how to avoid falling victim to sharp practice in the future.
If more work is needed on a particular complaint, Consumer Direct will refer it to trading standards for further investigation.
Ring Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.
