MIMICKING MICROSOFT

RESIDENTS in Sefton are being warned of a potential computer scam designed to con consumers out of money.  Trading Standards officers in Sefton have been alerted to the scam by a number of worried residents who received unsolicited telephone calls from someone claiming to be from Microsoft.

The caller asked the consumer if they were having problems with their PC, and if they were, he then asked them to follow his instructions by pressing a series of keys on their computer.

This then enabled the caller to gain control of the consumer's PC who later said the reason for the problems with the computer were due to the expiry of a Microsoft Licence.

The caller then advised them that they would need to pay more than £80 to renew the licence and were then asked to fill out a form in order to provide bank details.

Thankfully the consumers ended the call at this point and they did not part with any money. Trading Standards officers in Sefton are warning others to do the same if they are contacted.

Sefton Council Trading Standards manager, Andrew Naisbitt, said:- "In situations similar to this, please do not part with your bank details via the telephone.  If you are suspicious of the caller, do not follow their instructions and press keys to allow them to access your PC.  Always alert neighbours and friends of this scam to prevent from becoming a victim of crime.  If you are having problems with your PC, for peace of mind, always contact a reputable trader."

"We'll Meet Again" - The Diamond Jubilee Show

WE'LL Meet Again is the record breaking touring show presented by Duggie Chapman MBE. In 2011, it clocked up an amazing 10th year on the road and the acclaimed Britain’s best matinee show is once again on its annual nationwide tour. This Wartime Cavalcade celebration show includes a celebration of the music around the time of the Queen’s Coronation, to celebrate her Diamond Jubilee.

With a new programme, here is a show for everyone who wants to be cheered up during these sombre days, and that means most of us! The regular show team return with a new comedy star Adam Daye from TV's "Who Do You Do" recalling the wonderful comedy radio stars of the period.

This season we also have the pleasure of introducing International singing star to our company, Marilyn Hill Smith from
BBC Friday Night Is Music Night. Marilyn has just concluded a year's tour with the West End Musical, The Sound Of Music, where she played "Mother Abbess" with enormous show stopping success. She will bring back the memorable songs of Dame Vera Lynn and Gracie Fields.

Debonair Tony Leyton returns with the unforgettable songs of Bing Crosby, and Donald Peers by special request.

Ace musical entertainer Andy Eastwood, acknowledged as Britain’s best exponent on the ukulele features, both Formby favourites and classical pieces, never before heard on a ukulele. Andy also presents his tribute to French Violinist Stephane Grappele with swing violin melodies.

Versatile entertainer Mervyn Francis returns to host the show. With the fabulous music of The Martyn St James band, here is an afternoon show with a recollection of the days when the spirit of Britain was at its highest. It’s great fun full of damp-eyed nostalgia that leaves everyone with a warm and sentimental glow. So book early to avoid disappointment.

Davies says 'No' to new internet law

THE North West Euro-MP Chris Davies is joining his European Liberal colleagues to defeat legislation that could reduce internet freedom. The Lib Dem group in the European Parliament holds the swing 84 votes to ensure that ACTA (Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement) will not make it through the Brussels based assembly. The law was intended to prevent illegal downloading and copying of films and music; but concerns were expressed by free speech campaigners that ACTA could have been used by Government’s to crack down on everyday internet use. European internet users have been lobbying MEPs against the proposed new law that could have affected the way Southport people surf the web. Davies told the media that:- "I have had thousands of emails from all over the North West about ACTA and its potential impact on ordinary internet users. Piracy of copyrighted work is wrong, but there are better ways of fighting it than making criminals out of everyone who goes online. I’m pleased that my political colleagues agree with my constituents that ACTA could have restricted freedom and should be thrown out."