I recently saw a link on Moneysavingexpert that I could get a free copy of Moneywise magazine.

I took them up on the offer, and got my free copy.

There was a letter inside inviting me to receive the next 3 copies for only £1 in total, as long as I set up a direct debit.

I again took up the offer, with the intention of cancelling after the 3 copies.

I have today received a letter from them, saying they will be taking £9 from my direct debit.  Firstly I had only received 2 copies (plus the free one)  Secondly they haven't taken my £1 yet.  And thirdly if I have any questions, I am of course invited to call (you guessed it) an 0870 number!!

As my O2 gives free minutes to 0870 numbers (off peak), I thought I'd call and cancel today but just got a recorded message to call during office hours.

This is a magazine giving tips on saving money, yet they rip off their readers by using 0870.

I shall instead just cancel the direct debit with my bank and wait for the letter (probably with prepaid envelope to set up my DD again) to tell them at their own cost that I want to cancel.

Their address in Kent is home to many publications

Private Eye
Tel: 0870 750 1714
Tel: 01795 414 871
Tel (Overseas): +44 (0) 1795 414 870
Fax 01795 414555

The Art Newspaper
UK 0870 458 3774
OS +44 (0)1795 414 863
Fax 01795 414555

Moneywise
Tel: 0870 458 4436 for orders
0870 458 3776 for enquires
Fax: 01795 414 555

Hello
Tel: 0870 4429443
Fax: 0870 4429438

If calling from overseas
Tel: + 44 1795 414 919
Fax: + 44 1795 414 555

Amongst many others. All of which are dealt with by
Galleon Ltd

Security Gatehouse
Sittingbourne
ME9 8AG
Tel: 01795 414500

Same address, same range of numbers. Why not try their switchboard.

Thanks for the info.

It might be an idea to add these to the database, as I looked up to see if there was a geo alternative before making the call, and there wasn't one.

I have now been onto my online banking and cancelled the Direct Debit, so I'll wait for their automated letter in the post and see what action I need to take.  Hopefully a cancellation of direct debit will just stop the subscription with no further action to take, and no need to call customer services.