TRADING Standards seized fake items including tobacco and perfume which were being sold online after a raid in Braintree.

The goods, which also included clothing, footwear, handbags and make-up, were being sold on Facebook.

A warrant was carried out by Essex County Council’s Trading Standards and Essex Police last wednesday.

Roger Walters, lead member for Trading Standards, said: “Counterfeit goods will not have been tested to ensure safety and in the case of perfumes or cosmetics could cause severe allergic reactions.

"There are also dangers with electrical items such as electric shocks and house fires.

“I would urge anyone tempted into selling counterfeit goods online to think twice or risk a knock on the door that could result in a criminal record.”

Anyone with information about sales of counterfeit goods can call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline which handles calls for Trading Standards on 03454 040506.