NO sooner is Christmas over than the sales are upon us.

York trading standards officers offer guidance to shoppers whose Christmas money is burning a hole in their pockets

Is that bargain price what it seems? Price tags claiming 'Was £220. Now £85' may look tempting, but if the goods were never on sale at the higher price, then it's not the bargain it seems and the shop may be committing a criminal offence.

Is the price right? Unless the trader states otherwise, the earlier price mentioned for the goods must have been offered for at least 28 days within the last six months. Not all goods available in the sales will have been reduced in price as some goods are bought in especially.

You can't expect reduced goods marked 'seconds' or 'shop soiled' to be perfect, but you still have rights under the Sale of Goods Act even if goods are sale goods. If you buy a blouse which is marked 'seconds' and find it only has one sleeve you will be entitled to your money back. However, if there is a small flaw in the fabric you will not. You have no rights in relation to faults pointed out to you prior to purchase or if you have examined the goods and the defect is obvious.

Report problems to the shop quickly as you only have a 'reasonable' time in which to inspect goods and reject them. You can't get your money back just because you decide you don't like the goods. Some shops will refund or replace as a goodwill gesture, but it is not your legal right. Remember to keep your proof of purchase.

For further advice contact City of York Trading Standards at 9 St Leonard's Place or telephone 01904 551562. Our fax number is 01904 551511 and our e-mail address is trading.standards@york.

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