FAKE designer boots were found for sale on a stall at Clitheroe Auction Mart's Wednesday market.

A stallholder had 19 pairs of fake Rockport boots for sale, Blackburn magistrates were told.

BThe court heard that Iqbal Patel had previously received a written warning from trading standards officers. Patel, of Charlotte Street, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to offering for sale goods bearing a false trade mark.

He was given a conditional discharge for two years and ordered to pay £200 costs.

The magistrates also made a forfeiture order for confiscation of the boots. Nicholas McNamara, prosecuting, said trading in fake goods caused losses for manufacturers and legitimate retailers.

He said the current high street price of the boots on offer was £150.

Basharat Ditta, defending, said no members of the public would have been 'duped' by his client.

"He says he gave the customers a clear choice," said Mr Ditta. "He told them he had some fake boots that were sub-standard for £40 or the genuine article for £150."

Mr Ditta said that as a result of the proceedings, Patel had given up the market stall and was now in receipt of benefits.