Around £7,000 of counterfeit goods seized by authorities

Around £7,000 worth of counterfeit goods have been seized by Manx authorities.

More than 300 items including designer clothing, shoes and cosmetics were confiscated following an investigation by the Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading (OFT).

The operation was launched after the OFT was made aware that fake items by recognised brands were being sold at car boot sales on the Island.

Senior Trading Standards Officer, David Oldfield, says: "The criminals that prosper from this trade have little regard for anybody but themselves.

"While many people are aware that you get what you pay for, the law is very clear and sales of counterfeit goods impact seriously on trademark holders who have invested heavily in the design, manufacture and quality of their goods.

"The OFT will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action with respect to counterfeit goods to prevent dangerous or shoddy items being sold to unwitting consumers, to protect genuine businesses and to protect the rights of trade mark owners."

Officials are now urging anyone who thinks they've been sold counterfeit items or suspects someone is selling them to call the OFT on 686 500.