TRADING Standards chiefs in Preston are warning the public to beware of 'one day' sales.

They've been bombarded with complaints from people who've paid large sums of money for what they thought were quality electrical goods - only to find they've bought 'rubbish'. And when they challenged the traders some say they have been verbally abused.

Trading standards officers say gangs of con-men are operating in the Preston, Chorley and Blackburn areas targeting vulnerable housing estates.

Some gangs have broken into empty premises, including the Athena shop, to hold their one-day sales. They advertise amazing offers, such as camcorders for £50, TV sets for £20 or microwaves for £30.

But deputy chief trading standards officer David Brown, said the goods advertised are rarely on sale. And if they are, 'plants' in the audience snap them up.

He said: "The best advice we could give to people is don't go.

"If you do, only buy goods you have selected and examined carefully, don't get carried away bidding for lots of goods put together by the salesman - you may be disappointed when you open the bag." And he added: "Watch out for fake names which sound like the proper brands, such as Powasonic instead of Panasonic."

Trading Standards would like information on any such sales due to take place. Call 263573.

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