Warning over fakes sold at car boots this weekend

Some of the fake bags seized by the council Credit: Staffordshire County Council

Bargain hunters have been warned to be on the lookout for counterfeit goods when they are visiting car boot sales this bank holiday weekend.

Staffordshire County Council's trading standards team are warning that fake items could be offered to people shopping at local markets and car boot sales.

They are reminding shoppers that the fake goods are often poor quality imitations which could leave them out of pocket - and in the case of alcohol and cigarettes - put them at risk of damaging their health.

The council points out that legitimate traders lose out as a result of counterfeit sales, with money often made by the fake goods going towards organised criminal gangs.

Fake footwear that could be on sale this weekend Credit: Staffordshire County Council

Over the past few years, the council says it has seized millions of pounds worth of fake goods, with popular items including clothing, sportswear, headphones, toiletries, alcohol, tobacco and DVDs.

The council points out that fake tobacco can contain unknown chemicals Credit: Staffordshire County Council

Some of the hidden dangers of counterfeit goods includes:

  • Counterfeit alcohol such as vodka contains dangerous chemicals which can cause many health problems such as blindness

  • Counterfeit perfume can often burn skin or leave a nasty rash and may contain lead

  • Fake sunglasses often offer no UVA protection, causing eye damage

  • Fake tobacco often contains unknown chemicals

  • Counterfeit children's toys can often be unsafe with unsuitable small parts and children's clothes may be inflammable.