MOTORISTS wrongly targeted by rogue clampers in Clacton could get back some of the money owed to them.

The taxman has launched a bid to recover unpaid tax bills from LBS Enforcement which operated in the town. Motorists owed money by the firm could also apply to be considered creditors.

HM Revenue and Customs has petitioned for the company to be wound up at the High Court over an undisclosed tax debt.

The firm was infamous for its strong-arm tactics of swooping on drivers and and blocking them in before charging exorbitant release fees. Scores of drivers won county court judgments to get their money back, but more than £28,750 is still owed by the company.

LBS was run by Matt Boosey, 37, from Wickford, and Mark Stone, 44, from Southend. It ceased trading in December, but the company remained registered with Companies House.

It was due to be struck off for failing to file annual accounts in February, but that was suspended following objections from creditors.

If the judge issues a winding-up order, liquidators will be brought in to investigate if any assets are left to sell to pay back creditors. A report on the conduct of the directors will also be sent to the Insolvency Service, which could investigate further.

Mr Boosey said: “I am aware about the tax issue, but thought Mark dealt with it in the office. I have had nothing to do with LBS since December. A lot of things were not done properly and we parted sourly.”

A man who answered Mark Stone’s mobile phone said Mr Stone was in Spain.

The case will be heard at the High Court on June 15. Creditors wanting to take part in the petition must inform the HMRC solicitor on 020 7438 6975 by 4pm on June 14.