Trading Standards seized a large number of counterfeit goods this morning in the Penryn area.

In a Christmas crackdown, Cornwall Council's trading standards team executed a warrant in the Rame, near Penryn against an on-line seller of fake, so-called 'designer' goods.

Trading Standards officers visited the property early this morning and found a "substantial quantity" of mixed brands of clothing, watches, and footwear, which were being advertised for sale via the occupant's social media pages.

Gary Webster, Cornwall Trading Standards Team Manager said:

"We are keen to crack down on illegitimate traders such as these. Legitimate businesses have had an exceptionally hard time over the past two years in particular and they don't need the additional struggle of competing with criminals for a share of the Christmas market.

"In addition, we know that further up the supply chain, counterfeit goods are directly linked with terrorism and other high scale criminal activity. It's important that we try and stamp out this market."

Cornwall Council portfolio holder for public protection Martyn Alvey added:

"I fully support the work that Cornwall Trading Standards are undertaking. It's important to support Cornwall's hard working business community and to protect consumers from spending their hard-earned cash on low-quality fake goods."

The case remains under investigation. If convicted the penalty under the Trade Marks Act can be an unlimited fine and/or up-to 10 years imprisonment for each offence.

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