A BRIDE-TO-BE today warned internet shoppers to beware when using their computers to buy goods.

Support worker Adele Cooper, 34, of Blackburn Road, Darwen, said she was forced to pay more than £30 extra for a pair of wedding shoes she ordered from America because of hidden charges.

But she only found out about the extra payment when the £127 shoes arrived.

In Miss Cooper's case the unexpected expense was due to a new EU regulation against all US imports which adds a levy to all items of value over £18, but the American website had failed to mention this.

HM Customs & Excise strongly advise all customers to check their official website www.hmce.gov.uk/ public/shopping, or call the national helpline 0845 0109000 before buying over the internet to check for hidden costs.