An alleged scam by the Dutch-based firm Royal Consulting has reappeared in Essex in a new format, warns Essex Trading Standards.

In a week they had 20 complaints about an invoice sent by debt-collectors European Collections and Investigations on behalf of Royal Consulting demanding payment for a first aid kit that was not received or requested.

"It is illegal to demand payment for goods that have not been ordered. If you receive one of these letters and you have not asked for a first aid kit from Royal Consulting throw it away," said Nicola Webb from the advice unit at Essex Trading Standards.

Since last October, Essex trading standards has received 120 complaints about the tactics used by Royal Consulting. Consumers are concerned because the packs are unsolicited and the quality is poor.

Trading standards, the Police and the Charity Commission are liaising to ensure the public is not conned by any potential false claims, made by Royal Consulting, that it sells first aid kits to raise funds for charity.

Nicola Webb said, "Anyone offering to sell a first aid kit on behalf of a charity must have an agreement to do so. If in any doubt and you want to donate, give directly to charity."

A spokesman from the commission said: "We are aware of the activities of the Royal Consulting and are looking into the nature of its operations. We are also liaising with charities and other government agencies."

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