SEVERAL energy-saving companies in Middlesbrough are being investigated by Trading Standards after supposedly claiming they are working with a local authority.

After the regeneration of the Gresham area of the town, which involved hundreds of homes having cladding put on exterior walls to increase energy efficiency, companies have now been doorknocking in neighbouring areas.

Some companies are claiming to be endorsed by Middlesbrough Council and are even carrying the council’s logo on their literature.

A council spokesman said tonight: “We are aware that a number of private firms have been leaflet dropping and door knocking in the town, offering free energy efficiency measures.

“It has also been brought to our attention that some operators are claiming endorsement or approval by Middlesbrough Council and this is being investigated.

“However, with the exception of parts of the Gresham ward, Middlesbrough Council is not currently delivering energy efficiency measures.

“Discussions are currently under way with a number of companies to develop improved energy efficiency in other parts of the town and generate employment for local people.

“We will also investigate where there are significant levels of complaint against installers over the quality of their work.”

Susan Thompson, who lives in Brompton Street, Middlesbrough, and suffers from a debilitating eye condition, said she was concerned about the dust generated from any work that will be carried out.

Mrs Thompson has a severe form of dry eye and has to apply drops to her eyes every hour and keep her home scrupulously clean of dust to avoid irritating her eyes.

However she said she was concerned that if people in her area started having the cladding fitted it would make her life unbearable.

“There is no funding for the council to do these houses so it would be up to the individual homeowners or landlords to do it,” she said. “The work does cause an awful lot of dust.

“But the companies are saying it is free and that they are working with the council and I think that would convince a lot of people around here to go with it.

“My other concern is that these are lovely old Victorian houses and they just won’t look very nice. It will bring the area down.”

Anyone with concerns about companies claiming to be associated with Middlesbrough Council is advised to contact Trading Standards/Citizens Advice on 08454 04 05 06.