Estate agents in one London borough are being investigated by Trading Standards after allegations some of them are fly-boarding, it has been reported.

Hackney is located in the east of the capital and has become increasingly popular in recent years as property there tends to be cheaper than in neighbouring boroughs.

However, there are now accusations that some agents have been putting their boards up in the area even when they have not be instructed to sell an individual property, prompting the authorities to probe the matter.

Councillor Alan Laing told the Evening Standard "Trading Standards are investigating a number of estate agents with a view to possible prosecutions."

The newspaper reports that the council would consider banning all agents from putting up boards if the current action does not deter fly-boarding.

Agents in Hackney are just the latest to come under fire from council officials, with those based in Brighton and Hove also being criticised for putting up too many boards.

According to the Argus newspaper, the council is currently considering banning all boards in the region''s conservation areas.