SHOPPERS were today warned to beware of bogus "rag mag" sellers in East Lancashire's town centres.

The street vendors approach people asking them to buy a £1 rag mag which, it is claimed, supports good causes.

The warning was made by Lancashire trading standards officers, who say the magazines are commercially produced and sold solely for the profit of the sellers and printers, with little or no contribution going to the so-called good causes.

Jim Potts, Lancashire's chief trading standards officer, said: "Rag mags were a thing of the 1960s and 1970s and I don't think any colleges produce them any more. These bogus rag mags are commercial enterprises and they often claim to support local hospitals or baby units.

"The sellers are usually vague about where the money will go and often say that a donation will be made to a certain organisation.

"There have even been prosecutions under the Trade Descriptions Act in the past."

County Coun John West, leader of Lancashire County Council, said: "We are aware that town centres have been targeted for these sales.

"Shoppers are advised to avoid street sellers and only make donations directly to the cause they wish to support. Any mag sellers should be reported to the trading standards department." People should call 01772 262145 or 0845 6001352.

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