The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

May 9, 2020 in News

The Good...

Well done to two fine examples of local business, (although I'm sure there are many more, let me know here) our local hardware store here in Rayleigh, Hickeys, who has been working hard to source and supply PPE for frontline workers and who set up a jigsaw exchange to help keep people entertained! Another business in Hockley, Alpine Taxis (01702 531531) has adapted to the current crisis by offering their services to deliver food, prescriptions, newspapers, gas and electric top-ups. As well as all of that they are even providing a mobile book drop! Well done!!

The Bad...

You may remember that a couple of weeks ago I wrote about how I was grappling with Ryanair for a refund for some flights. Well, Ryanair are still pursuing their shady business practices in refunding the money (and breaking the law!) and they efectively using customers money, as an interest-free loan.

I won't be phased by their awkwardness as I've issued a 'chargeback' claim against them under the protection offered to me by my fabulous card provider 'curve' - small advert here for Curve if you've not heard of them. They describe their card as

This is your badass 100 Cards in One*.
Your gateway to money for nothing.
Your personal firewall.
Your kickass travel companion.
And yeah, it's a time machine.

Yes, Curve is a super cool card that simply sits between your 'real' card and the merchants and offers you loads of consumer protection and other great stuff. Check it out and if you decide to sign up (for free) use this link and we'll both get a fiver!

The CMA...

Since my post on Ryanair and their shady business practices, other residents have been in contact to tell me about other unscrupulous businesses. Following my reporting of some to the CMA, I've received this information back on how to deal with them. Full details below and I'm always keen to know how you get on. If any of the businesses are operating in the Rochford District, please let me know here so I can also ask the Council to take action against them.

In the meantime - keep safe

Link to the PDF from CMA

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About the author 

James Newport

Essex County Councillor for Rayleigh North, Rochford District Councillor for Downhall & Rawreth and Rayleigh Town Councillor for Sweyne.