Garages are being targeted by a fax scam operator claiming to be setting up a new UK bodyshop network.

Interested companies are asked to call a number to register, but Trading Standards says callers are redirected to a premium rate phone line costing £1.50 a minute. Some Retail Motor Industry Federation and the Vehicle Builders and Repairers Association.

Trading Standards says Crest Corporation does not belong to either trade association and adds that dozens of repairers have

contacted their offices to complain about the company. The Hertfordshire address given on the fax is that of the local Inland Revenue office.