POLICE trying to catch rogue traders targeting unsuspecting bargain hunters across East Lancs are appealing for help in compiling a dossier of evidence.

War has been launched on the fraudsters after complaints from customers disappointed with goods bought at mock auctions.

Blackburn Police are anxious to talk to people who have been ripped off by the bogus auctioneers.

They want to compile a dossier of dissatisfied customers in a bid to prosecute the traders.

Audley and Blackburn town centre have been targeted by bogus traders in the past two months.

They offered brand name goods at knock down prices, 'flagging' it as a stock clearance or bankrupt stock.

But when people got the goods home they realised they were poor quality or faulty.

Inspector Tony Harling from Blackburn Police said: "These one-off sales are popping up all over the place in East Lancashire. People are losing money on worthless goods.

"They should be made aware if they go to these places, they will be taken for a ride." Trading standards have repeatedly warned the public about mock auctions whose operators con firms out of thousands and the public out of cash.

Inspector Harling said: "People can't resist a bargain and are tempted by traders offering electrical goods of well-known brands at rock bottom prices.

"But what they actually buy is absolute rubbish; cheap imitations with worthless guarantees. Many don't realise they have been conned until they get home, by which time it is too late.

"They won't see the traders again. People should buy from a reputable dealer."

He is appealing for anyone who feels they have been conned to come forward.

Inspector Harling said: "If we can get some evidence against these people it could substantiate a criminal offence. We will look at every individual case."

But he is concerned that a number of disgruntled people will not come forward because they are embarrassed at having been duped.

"People shouldn't be embarrassed. These traders are professionals with a very convincing patter," he said.

Anyone with information should call Blackburn Police on 01254 51212.

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