Festive 'fake presents' warning

Counterfeit goods are becoming more widespread

Christmas shoppers are being warned to be wary of last-minute bargain deals which may be counterfeit goods.

Trading Standards officials are cracking down on rogue traders and have urged shoppers to be vigilant.

Finance Minister Andy Kerr said fake goods could be dangerous and had the potential to ruin Christmas.

Mr Kerr also said that unsuspecting families who buy cut-price presents could be helping to finance criminal gangs.

He said: "We all love giving and receiving presents at Christmas - but that enjoyment can be ruined by dodgy or counterfeit goods.

'Easy to be tempted'

"They can, of course, be disappointing and ruin Christmas - the toys that don't work or the fake item of designer clothing that falls apart after one wash.

"But the consequences are often more serious - counterfeit goods can be extremely dangerous. Toys can be breaching safety standards and may cause injury when used."

Counterfeit goods worth £10m were seized in a major police operation at a market in Edinburgh on 15 December.

Eighteen people were questioned as part of the raid at Ingliston.

Mr Kerr added: "It is easy to be tempted by what appears to be a bargain - but the dodgy characters who peddle counterfeit goods to unsuspecting consumers can have links to organised crime and drugs and are making money at the expense of others.

"My advice to consumers this Christmas is always buy from reputable traders and, if in doubt, seek the advice of Trading Standards Officers."