LAST minute Christmas shoppers are being warned not to buy from rogue street traders as they desperately hunt down last-minute presents.

Lancashire's trading standards team have been swamped with cases of dodgy mobile phones, counterfeit PlayStations and bootleg alcohol in the run up to December 25.

Officers are now urging people to buy from reputable traders in order to avoid disappointment on Christmas Day.

Chief trading standards officer for Lancashire, Jim Potts said: "It can be very frustrating trying to get hold of the latest craze in toys or games but always seek out genuine sources - even if you have to queue for longer."

Mr Potts added: "Counterfeit goods can be poorly made and even dangerous.

"We have seen counterfeit DVDs and CDs, fake designer clothes and we are now even seeing fake games consoles and electrical equipment.

"Pirated software, DVDs or videos are illegal and could cause real problems with your PC - always buy licensed software.

"And always be wary of offers that seem too good to be true, because they probably are."

Gift choices for children are moving away from traditional toys and this has led to problems for trading standards.

Mr Potts explained: "Everything seems a lot more complicated these days.

"Children have got to have the latest gadget and often their parents are even less clued up about it than the kids.

"They can get signed up for something that they never even wanted and it ends up costing them a packet - it pays to do your research before you buy."

Toy manufacturing has improved in recent years, leading to fewer complaints at trading standards.

Mr Potts said: "About 90 per cent of toys are imported but they are monitored carefully when they enter the country.

"There are occasional unsafe toys on the market, especially at this time of year.

"Look for parts which come off to uncover spikes, nails or staples, lead-based paint and small parts that can be a choking hazard.

"Always look for toys with a safety mark and buy from retailers you can return to if a problem arises."

Some of the problems dealt with by trading standards can even be deadly.

Mr Potts said: "We have seen a lot of bootleg spirits being sold at car boot sales across Lancashire.

"At this time of year there is a lot of counterfeit champagne and there has been a batch of vodka that has contained industrial levels of alcohol.

"People have been buying it as a bit of tipple for the Christmas table but it could leave them seriously ill, or worse."

He added: "Christmas is a time to be enjoyed with the family - following a few common sense steps means you won't be spending it in the dog house because you've bought dodgy goods."