'Potentially lethal' sofas sold

A very cheap sofa may be a death trap, trading standards officers warn.

Trading standards officers in Warwickshire are warning that potentially lethal sofas and furniture suites are being offered for sale.

The furniture imported from Poland does not meet the UK's fire safety standards.

In tests a cigarette dropped on one piece of furniture ignited within 30 seconds and caused a serious fire within three minutes.

Officers are warning they could be offered for sale across the county.

'Death trap'

Director of trading standards in Warwickshire, Noel Hunter, said: "Be suspicious if you're offered a sofa very cheaply.

"The chances are there could be something wrong with it.

"What looks like a bargain initially could be a death trap later.

"(People should) avoid buying anything from an unusual source."