Stung by dodgy debt collectors

NO HELP Dave Stewart lost his upfront fee According to its website, Harper Cross Associates Limited is “recognised nationally” for its debt recovery expertise.

But clients I’ve spoken to say it took an upfront fee, then failed to recover any money – much like the dreadful CLS Central that I exposed last week.

Dave Stewart runs commercial vehicle specialist Com-Truck Limited of Peterlee, Co Durham, which was chasing an outstanding debt of £5,000.

“Harper Cross contacted me initially regarding a customer that had gone bankrupt,” he said.

“They advised me they would be able to recover the full amount owed including interest and penalties.

“I paid them £350 plus VAT and about a month later they ceased trading – I can’t help feeling they knew it was coming.”

Self-employed planning consultant Paul Denyer initially paid £714 for them to pursue two business debts, followed by a further £1,272, supposedly for court fees.

“Once they had the money, Harper Cross Associates Ltd went very quiet – no reply to emails or to a registered letter,” said Paul, from Havant, Hants.

He successfully sued Harper Cross and director Richard Coates, 37, who later tried and failed to have the judgment overturned.

“Until we get effective regulators, small businesses will always be falling prey to people such as Richard Coates who know there are considerable rewards for very little risk,” he said.

I contacted Mr Coates through one of his new companies, QCTV Limited.

He confirmed that Harper Cross was no longer trading, saying this was a result of a fraud which has resulted in one person being charged.

“We are not able to comment any further on this,” he added. “It is with much regret that this has happened.”