A FOREST businessman thought he was being targeted by scammers after receiving a tax demand for more than £1,000.

Fencing contractor Stan Smith said the demand for £1,180 from Bluestone Credit Management came without warning.

He said: “I have an accountant and I know that my tax is in order.

“I’m not worried about it but it could frighten some people.”

He said he has been in touch with Bluestone who were adamant that the bill would have to be paid.

Mr Smith said he contacted a fraud helpline who told him it could be a scam although the Review later established that Bluestone is one of the debt collection companies used by HMRC, Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs.

A spokeswoman for HMRC said: “There are a number of stages before someone would receive a debt collection letter.

“Assuming an individual is in Self Assessment, their own calculations are used to assess the tax due for the tax year – which has to be paid by 31 January in the following tax year.

“After their tax return is filed they would receive a bill about the amount of tax due and by when.

“We also issue reminders and statements.

“If someone uses an accountant, usually the accountant would query any apparent discrepancies though the dedicated agents’ helpline or contact can be made through the details shown on any letter or bill received.”