£500,000 worth of counterfeit goods were seized by Trading Standards Officers during this year's Appleby Horse Fair in Cumbria.

Trading Standards Officers from Westmorland and Furness Council were supported by Cumbria Police during their operation, which targeted market traders selling potentially harmful items such as fake perfumes, sunglasses, and wireless earbuds.

Catherine Hornby, Trading Standards manager, highlighted the risks posed by counterfeit items: “Consumers are often not aware of the health risks involved in using counterfeit items.

"Counterfeit sunglasses may not provide any protection at all against ultra-violet rays, leaving the wearer at serious risk of eye damage.

"Counterfeit fragrances may contain poisonous chemicals, including cyanide and even human urine."

The haul, which included 2,500 pairs of sunglasses and nearly 200 perfume bottles bearing fake trademarks of luxury brands, surpassed £500,000 in estimated retail value.

Phil Lewis, director general of The Anti-Counterfeiting Group, stated: "We highly commend Westmorland and Furnace Council Trading Standards team for their commitment to protecting consumers by removing counterfeit and potentially dangerous goods from this high profile event."

If you have information about the sale of counterfeit items please contact Trading Standards via Citizens Advice consumer helpline 0808 223 1133 or Police on 101.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.