THE leasing industry is being urged to help stamp out illegal clocking by making details of disposed cars available to the public. Speaking at the launch of BCH Vehicle Management's Used Car Buyer's Guide on Tuesday, managing director Richard Pepper said leasing companies had a role to play in protecting future buyers.

He said: 'I believe it is up to the vehicle leasing industry to clear up what has become a colossal business in this country. Criminals are reported to be making over £2m a week on clocking motor vehicles alone. By warning the public of the tell tale signs showing when a vehicle's speedometer has been tampered with or whether the vehicle has been stolen and given a new identity we can go some way towards reducing the number of these vehicles sold.'

The free BCH Guide, produced with the help of Avon and Somerset Constabulary and launched with the aid of England rugby player Simon Shaw, aims to cut car crime and raise the image of the motor industry. The Guide is available free by sending an SAE to BCH Vehicle Management, PO Box 101, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 3EU.