ANTIQUE traders in Bidford have received written warnings after they were found to be selling faulty second-hand electrical goods.

The three traders, who have not been identified, received letters of caution after a countywide crackdown discovered 17 electrical items were defective out of 24 tested.

In all, 49 retailers in Warwickshire were visited as part of the crackdown, mostly operating in charity shops, recycling centres and antique bazaars and markets.

Warwickshire trading standards spokesman Simon Cripwell said the type of problems encountered included antique lamps and other retro electrical items with incorrect plugs and fuses and unsheathed main cables. "Electrical products are potentially life-threatening and can cause fires and shocks," he said.

"We want these people to know that it may be an antique electrical item but it should not have antique wiring."

He said that traders had a duty to ensure that items they put on their shelves were safe and conformed to current standards.

Mr Cripwell confirmed that trading standards officers would continue regular checks on second-hand goods traders and that they reserve the right to prosecute any traders who continued to flout the regulations.

He said that checks on traders in Stratford had not uncovered any problems.

Second-hand traders who need help and advice on the sale of electrical goods should contact 01926 414040.