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Dixons and Currys drivers say the retailers are pushing them to do more work, including the installation of some white goods, without training or additional pay.

Angry owner-drivers working for the high street electrical stores Currys and Dixons allege that a catalogue of deteriorating working conditions is putting a huge strain on their finances.

The drivers, who wish to remain anonymous, claim that the  stores no longer pay them for deliveries if customers are not at home or if the goods have to be returned. They also say that an advertising push offering free installation means they are installing washing machines, dishwashers and fridge-freezers with little experience and no extra pay.

In addition, owner-drivers allege that they are retrieving an increasing number of 'scrap' equipment from customers' homes and not being paid for it.

One driver says: "They are changing the goalposts as they go along to whatever suits them. We used to get paid slightly more for plasma TVs or big American-style fridge-freezers. But they have reduced the rates on those to the standard rate.

"It's taking an awful lot more time out of our day and we aren't being paid any extra for it. If someone paid a plumber to install a washing machine it would be £30 an hour."

Another driver says: "We haven't had any skilled training we are not qualified."

He adds: "I'm servicing my  debts, living off my wife's wage. I'm paying £1,600 per month for two vehicles and have my mortgage and everything else too."

A spokesman for DSGi, parent company for the stores, wouldn't respond to the drivers' allegations, but says it is "happy to discuss any outstanding issues that drivers may have".

Referring to drivers' concerns over its franchise plans, he adds: "Moving to a franchise system will not only significantly reduce annual costs for drivers, but will deliver consistently higher standards for the business."