A GREAT Harwood businessman has warned others to be aware of a scam run by a fictional data protection register.

Philip Crompton, who owns Rumbletums Sandwich shop, in Westwell Street, received the letter saying he must complete forms and pay £135 or risk a large fine.

The letter sent to his business is one of many sent to East Lancashire firms demanding payment for putting the company on a data protection register.

Mr Cromptom said: "I realised it was a scam but other people may not be aware and ought to be warned not to be taken in.

"There are lots of people who do fall for these and it is frightening because they are talking about huge sums of money."

The company which sent the letter, based at Sparth House, 49 Heath Street, Rochdale, is one of many which have been complained about to the Office of Fair Trading.

Margaret Thompson, of Castle Cobbler, in Clitheroe, has also received one in the last week.

She said: "I don't see why these people think they have the right to take money we have worked hard for, we pay enough in taxes as it is."

Lancashire County Council's trading standards service has again warned businesses to be on their guard against companies inviting them to pay a fee for registration under the Data Protection Act 1998.

Most businesses processing personal data, including staff records, are required by law to notify the Information Commissioner but firms can notify the Information Commissioner directly and the registration fee is only £35.

Bogus companies often request a fee of £95 plus for registering the business with the Information Commissioner.

Richard Thomas, the information commissioner, said: "I advise data controllers to ignore any approach made by these businesses."

Details of whether or not businesses are required to notify under the Data Protection Act 1998 are available on the Information Commissioner's website at www.dpr.gov.uk or by calling 01625 545740. The website also includes details of' 'Bogus Agencies' which have no connection with the Information Commissioner's Office.