MORE than 6,000 complaints and inquiries, covering a multitude of consumer problems, were dealt with by City of York Council's Consumer Advice Service team last year. Three advisers, who are fully trained and regularly updated on the latest developments in consumer law, offer a friendly, professional service which provides free, impartial advice and assistance to York residents and businesses, as well as to those who shop in the city of York area.

Liz Levett, Trading Standards manager, said: "My team provides pre-shopping advice as well as advice on problems with goods such as cars, toys, clothing, furniture and electrical items. We also advise on matters relating to services such as holidays, timeshare and holiday club membership, dry cleaning, hairdressing or building work, and deal with complaints relating to false descriptions, unfair trading practices, safety matters and credit.

"We are proud to hold the "Charter Mark", the Government's award for recognising and encouraging excellence in public service and regularly seek the views of the users of our service with a view to continuously improving the service we provide.

"We would urge anyone who is concerned about a consumer problem to contact us. The Consumer Advice Service can supply leaflets and 'standard' letters, clarify your legal position and, initially, will advise on how best someone can handle their complaint. However, where problems prove difficult to resolve we may also assist with letters, try to negotiate a settlement, or even help with action in the County Court.

"In 1999-2000 the Consumer Advice Service helped to obtain £130,652 in redress for those who sought help and advice and we also promote consumer rights throughout York using local radio, talks to community groups and regular press releases."

Consumer advice is provided over the telephone, in person to callers in reception, or in response to letters, e-mails and faxes. The Consumer Advice Service operates within the guidelines of a 'Customer Contract' which is readily available to all who use the service, and which sets out what those users can expect in terms of the performance standards the Service strives to meet and beat.

If you need help with a consumer problem please contact York Consumer Advice Service. We are open between 8.30am and 5pm (Monday to Friday, except public holidays) and can be contacted by telephoning 01904 551562 or calling at 9 St Leonard's Place. Alternatively you may e-mail the team on trading.standards@

york.gov.uk, send a fax to 01904 551511 or write to De Grey House, Exhibition Square, York YO1 7HE.

Top Ten Complaints:

- Personal goods and services

- Second hand vehicles

- Radio, TV and electrical goods

- Food and drink

- Home maintenance and improvements

- Clothing and clothing fabrics

- Major appliances

- Motor vehicle repairs and servicing

- Double glazing

- Upholstered furniture