FRAUD squad detectives have appealed for information from the customers of a second-hand car sales firm at the centre of a criminal investigation.

Police were first called to the premises of the Wiltshire Motor Company, in Moormead Road, Wroughton , on Tuesday, August 14 after customers reported the disappearance of cars from the forecourt and a lack of staff on site.

The business had been on the site since November last year and, on its now defunct website, had claimed to have sold more than 1,000 vehicles.

It had been selling cars on behalf of individual vehicle owners and it is understood that complaints include purchased cars not being delivered.

One customer, who did not want to be identified, claimed to be a regular supplier of cars and said he had been left in the dark.

“A lot of people have been affected by this,” he said.

“When the police were on site on the Tuesday I was trying to get back some of my cars at that point.

“I was devastated and this has also affected mine and other people’s family lives on a major scale.”

A spokesman for trading standards said: “They have been operating in Swindon for a while until a couple of weeks ago people suddenly could not get in contact with them, the dealership was empty, the staff had disappeared, phones weren't being answered.

“Obviously there are a lot of people concerned about what had either happened to their car or any money they had paid.”

A spokesman for Wiltshire Police said: “We are currently investigating a number of theft allegations made against the Wiltshire Motor Company, based in Moormead Road, Wroughton.

“Wiltshire Police are now working alongside partners in the Trading Standards department at Swindon Council and the Citizens’ Advice Bureau.

“We are keen to hear from anyone who has had dealings with the company or who believes they are a victim of crime.

“Anyone who feels this may apply to them, should report this to Wiltshire Police on 101 or on Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.

“Anyone who is concerned about their legal rights in relation to any car that they have purchased from or sold through Wiltshire Motor Company can obtain free legal advice from the Citizens’ Advice consumer service.”

Advice is available by calling 08454 040506 or via email through the ‘get advice’ section of their website at www.adviceguide.org.uk.