WILTSHIRE Constabulary Fraud Squad is warning of a scam which has already caught out Wiltshire residents and has started to happen further afield.

Adverts are being placed on the internet, in local papers and shop windows, offering leather suites for sale at low prices.

The adverts describe the suites as being 'brand new leather 3+2+1' or 'modern leather suite' and are usually offered for around £500.

Suites are always delivered by the sellers. The clue that all is not what it seems is that so far all adverts have carried a mobile phone number as the contact point.

The suites are delivered wrapped, but when this wrapping is removed, it reveals that the suites are, in fact, cheap plastic imports.

"There is a real concern about the safety issues as they may well not meet flammability standards and could therefore be very dangerous," said a police spokesman.

"Remember, if it sounds too good to be true then it probably is."

Trading Standards officers are investigating but need anyone who has bought one of the suites to come forward. Officers can be contacted on 01793 525387.