RESIDENTS are being warned against buying advertising space in publications claiming to be supported by Wiltshire Fire Brigade.

The problem arises every few months across the Swindon area and the brigade is anxious to dissociate itself with any publications of this kind.

"It's a regular problem," said the brigade's media officer, Assistant Divisional Officer Andrew Hargreaves.

"There are a number of unscrupulous and aggressive sales persons trying to pressurise local businesses to subscribe to advertising space in calendars, diaries, journals and magazines which they claim are supported by Wiltshire Fire Brigade and it is just not the case.

"If you have any doubts about this kind of publication, don't sign anything, call me to check out if the brigade are really involved on 01380 731108 or 07860 815045."