An agency which closed just before Christmas amid claims of unpaid rents and missing deposits is being investigated by Trading Standards and police.

Morgan Hampton, in Wimborne, Dorset, was founded by Andy Hampton in 2001.

Hampton, who became Mayor of Wimborne between 2013 and 2015, told the local paper at the time of the closure that it was in the process of merging with another, un-named, letting agent. Messages are said to have been left at its former premises querying missing money.

Dorset Trading Standards have now confirmed they are investing the firm.

Ivan Hancock, Trading Standards service manager for Dorset County Council, said: “We are in contact with Dorset Police on the subject of allegations concerning Morgan Hampton estate agents in Wimborne.

“The main allegations involve the theft of customers’ deposits.”

Nothing on the Morgan Hampton website suggests the firm belongs to a membership organisation. However, it does say that it belongs to the Deposit Protection Scheme. We have asked if the DPS is aware of the allegations.