Company managers have been warned against bogus 'consultants' claiming to secure big savings on business rates.

Oxfordshire Trading Standards has produced a leaflet after receiving complaints about unscrupulous consultants making false and misleading claims about the size of refunds available through the Business Rates Appeals process.

Large deposits are paid and the chances of firms getting their money back if they are dissatisfied are very slim.

David Sibbert, the chief trading standards officer, said: "Businesses are just as susceptible to mis-selling as customers, and a small, struggling firm can ill afford to lose two or three hundred pounds on this sort of scam.

"If you want to make an appeal against the amount of business rates you pay, you should contact your local district or city council first. Don't fall victim to cold-calling companies, and if you want to use a professional rating adviser, look for membership of a recognised trade body."

Recognised bodies include: the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the Incorporated Society of Valuers and Auctioneers and the Institute of Revenues, Rating and Valuation.