Debt collectors' error anguish for widow, 91
A worried 91-year-old widow has been threatened with a fine and visit from debt collectors – who she says have got the wrong address.
Elizabeth Bailey's daughter said she has repeatedly contacted Philips Collection Services to inform them of their error.
But the firm has continued issuing the letters – with the latest warning the grandmother-of-three that collectors would turn up at her Walsall home this week to remove property to cover a £525 fine. Daughter Sue Pickstone, of Norton Canes, said she contacted the company after her mother received the first letter at her house in Blakenall around a month ago.
"I spoke to workers and got confirmation that nothing more would happen," she said. "I've even sent utility bills and a tenancy agreement to prove my mother is not the person they are after. But they sent a letter to say that because we have not answered any of their letters, they will be sending removal people round.
"My mother has had two letters like that and then a hand-delivered one. She has also told me there have been callers at her door. I have written to them and rang them up and spoke to them. I even suggested they meet me at my mother's house."
Mrs Pickstone added: "We don't know what to do – we've had to warn her not to leave any windows open and not to answer the door."
The Express & Star made several attempts to contact bosses at Philips Collection Services in Darlington. But despite speaking to a number of workers, each of whom would only give first names, including Charlotte, Dan and Lee, the firm flatly refused to comment.
