Christmas warnings

Trading standards officers are warning about the dangers of buying counterfeit goods as Christmas gifts.
Goods seized in the past have included fake designer perfume containing urine, wine containing anti-freeze and branded toys containing lead paint.
"We've seen people's festive enjoyment ruined by some nasty shocks over the years," says trading standards officer at Hull City Council Mike Pindar.
"Counterfeit DVDs, CDs and children's toys might not work properly and there's no guarantee of safety or quality.
"What's more, the counterfeiters are damaging legitimate businesses and the local economy."
Meanwhile, trading standards officers have produced a special advent list containing 24 tips for Christmas shoppers, including:

• always keep a receipt
• check gift vouchers for expiry dates
• check age warnings if buying for children

There are also tips for staying safe in the home, including to:

• check Christmas tree lights aren't damaged, not to leave them switched on and not to overload sockets
• make sure your smoke alarms are working
• make sure you defrost and cook your turkey thoroughly

"These are important messages which we can't reinforce enough," adds Mr Pindar.
"The shopping advice is also very relevant to the January sales, when we always see a rise in the number of people seeking advice on their consumer rights."

For more information visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk
Copies of the advent tips are available from the Trading Standards Advice Centre in Bond Street.