Police have launched a fraud investigation into a lettings agency which closed two weeks ago in mysterious circumstances.

The Argus has received numerous calls over the past fortnight from irate landlords who claim to be owed thousands of pounds by the Hove- based Direct Lettings.

Sussex Police have now confirmed that they are looking into recent dealings following a number of calls accusing the Western Road firm of fraud.

Anne Stephens, who is based in London, contacted The Argus and Sussex Police last week.

The 69-year-old, who owns properties in Brunswick Square, Waterloo Street and Upper Market Street, claims to be owed £4,000.

She said: “I’ve been with them for four years but haven’t had a problem until the start of this year.

“I didn’t get rent through for January, then I was paid for February but not for March. I went in and spoke to someone who told me not to worry and that he would pay it into my account straight away.

“That was a couple of weeks ago and now I can’t get hold of anyone.

“I have no idea what is going on. There are rumours but I just don’t know. It is a bit worrying.”

Another landlord, who asked not to be named, told The Argus that he too was owed thousands in rent.

He added that he had been down to the Western Road shop with other landowners trying to get answers.

The office closed suddenly on May 17 without notice.

Director Peter Leonard told The Argus last week that the company was “restructuring” and that it would open again this week.

However, when we visited his £600,000 Rottingdean home yesterday, there was no sign of the owner.

A neighbour, who asked not to be named, said that he had not been around for a couple of days although his white Audi TT could be seen through the 7ft security gates.

Mr Leonard is well known in Brighton and Hove, having been involved in numerous city businesses. He is listed as a director of nine companies on the Com panies House website, as well as being involved with 16 others which have since dissolved.

Mr Leonard is also a long-serving member of the Brighton Rugby Club where he holds the position of vice chair.

A spokesman for the club said: “His business dealings are nothing to do with us.

“He has been a great servant to this club and continues in his role as vice chair.”

Police are calling for anyone with information to contact them on 101 quoting serial 120 of 17/5.

Have you been affected by the closure of Direct Lettings? Contact The Argus on 01273 544 544 or email news@theargus.co.uk