Quick Link: Scotcall Debt Collecting Services

"OH DEAR"

I received a letter from them in January 08 asking for payment of a debt. 
A letter was sent to the office manager the very next day, explaining that the debt had been cleared with a DIFFERENT debt recovery agency. Obviously, they had not informed ScotCall that the balance was cleared (otherwise, why pass the account to them).. Details were included of the payment, including date, etc. 
 
I heard nothing.... until today (September 08). I have received another letter from the SAME office manager, asking for payment. 
I telephoned immediately, explained that the debt had been cleared a year ago, and the fact that I'd written to them explaining all they needed to know eight months ago. I was asked whether it was sent as recorded delivery. It wasn't. So how did I know they'd received it? Good question, but it shouldn't have to be. Or does everything need sending that way now? 
So, basically, my credit record continues to be damaged by a debt that does not exist. 
And the really surprising news is that this is the third time I have experienced this. On one occasion, I received a summons for a debt that had been cleared three years preiously. It took two days off work to track back through various companies trying to discover how many of them thought I owed money. 
My advice- if you ever find yourself in difficulties that mean debt agencies are involved, get proof that they have removed that item from your credit record once it's paid.