TRADING standards chiefs are warning Blackburn Rovers fans to stay away from unofficial merchandise celebrating the team's Worthington Cup triumph in Cardiff last month.

And Blackburn with Darwen Council said that people caught selling them, or even involved in the sale of them, could be prosecuted.

Silver tankards with the words "Blackburn Rovers Worthington Cup Winners 2001/2002" and framed mirrors with the club and the Worthington logos, have been on sale in local pubs and clubs.

But council and club officials said the items, both priced at £10, are counterfeit and warned fans they could be taking money from their own club, which has not authorised the merchandise.

Samples of the items are being distributed around Blackburn with licensees asked to take orders. The items are later delivered.

Coun Maureen Bateson, executive member for citizens' and consumer rights, said: "The supply of counterfeit goods is something we take very seriously.

"It is disappointing that unscrupulous traders are seeking to make profit, purely for themselves, on the back of Blackburn Rovers' recent success.

"Supporters obviously assist Blackburn Rovers financially when they purchase official merchandise, but anyone buying these articles should be aware that it is unlikely that any of the money they pay will find its way to the club."

Chris Allen, head of trading standards and advice services, warned: "Our officers are currently investigating this matter and anyone involved in the supply of these items, including the pubs and clubs, is likely to commit criminal offences and may face prosecution."

Lynn Tierney, merchandising manager at Blackburn Rovers, added: "These type of people are here today, gone tomorrow operators and people who buy from them often find they have no recourse should the goods need to be exchanged."