Traders in Narberth are being warned to be on their guard against cold calls from companies promising to help reduce business rate bills.

It comes after a number of members of the town's Chamber of Trade have received telephone contact about 'Helping them with their Rate Bills'.

Said Chamber secretary, Gordon Barry: "The callers never seem to give the company name and the 'phone call is always number withheld. They don't seem best pleased when their offers are refused.

"We are asking members to please be aware of the legal position of verbal agreements made over the telephone. They are binding. If in any doubt check with your accountant or the Chamber."

Local MP Simon Hart has also been notified of the calls.

He said: "I have had reports from traders in Narberth about these cold callers who apparently have been getting quite aggressive at times.

"I am concerned about them as anybody can lodge an appeal against their rates, shopkeepers don't need to pay someone else to do it for them.

"If I get any evidence of strongarm tactics being used, then I will ask Trading Standards to investigate. I would also warn traders in other towns to be on their guard against these calls too."

The matter was also brought to the attention of Narberth Town Council by Clr. Colin Williams on Tuesday night.

The Chamber, meanwhile, is continuing to contest the damaging effects of the revaluation on local business as a result of the 2010 rate revaluation.