MORE than 800 fake items were seized from a stall at Portland Market.

Officers from the Dorset County Council trading standards team were tipped off by a visitor to the market and subsequently identified hundreds of imitation items for sale by a stallholder from Bournemouth.

These items included imitation watches and sunglasses, as well as a number of items of clothing.

The brands being copied included Nike, Fred Perry, Louis Vuitton, Dolce and Gabbana, Gucci, Chanel and Ralph Lauren.

The stallholder was confronted by the officers and admitted to selling counterfeit goods, which were subsequently seized.

Formal action will be considered following further checks on the seller and the items.

Dorset County Council has warned that the sale of counterfeit goods is not only illegal, but can pose a risk to consumers, given potential links to organised crime.

Ivan Hancock, trading standards service manager, said: "We are grateful for both the tip-off and the subsequent swift and enthusiastic intervention by three of our colleagues on this.

"I would certainly warn anyone thinking of selling counterfeit goods at Dorset’s summer markets and fairs to think again.

"The first point of contact for consumers wishing to complain about any goods or services is the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06."

Portland Market is held weekly off Easton Lane and often attracts day-trippers and visitors to the area.

Investigations are still ongoing into this incident.