ONE of the most experienced electricians in the Forest says he's being slandered by 'malicious rumours' claiming he's gone bust.

Roger Davey, who's been trading as an electrician since 1973, says he first started hearing the rumours from his wholesale suppliers, but they've now spread to pubs and clubs throughout the Forest and have even reached his customers.

"I was working away in Saffron Walden when I spoke to one of my wholesalers," says Roger. "And he told me 'there's a rumour out there that you've gone bust.'"

After ringing around Roger found other wholesalers had also picked up the tale.

"Then I heard that the rumour had been doing the rounds at Sling Club and had been overheard in the Feathers in Coleford.

"The last straw was when a customer asked if it was true I was in trouble. That's a real concern. Round here word of mouth can be your worst enemy. Do a good job and they'll tell two people, do a bad job and they'll tell 50."

Roger believes the rumours are being spread mischievously and maliciously and says the finger points at another electrician competing for jobs.

"Contrary to all the rumours, we're very much still a going concern. In fact we're thriving. And I'd have no hesitation in taking action against anyone if there's evidence they are spreading these slanders."