With the winter sales about to get into full swing, consumers are being urged to think twice before spending large sums of money and avoid getting caught up in "Sales Fever".

The warning comes from the Midlands Co-ordinating Group on Trading Standards (MCOTS) which represents Trading Standards Services in the West Midlands region together with neighbouring Shire Counties.

Officers say there are 3 main messages they want to get across concerning; price claims, consumer rights and credit deals.

Prices

Consumers are warned to look out for dodgy price comparisons. Goods offered at sale prices have normally been sold at a higher price for 28 days prior to a sale, but this is not always the case. Consumers should look for disclaimer notices which might indicate that goods have been bought in especially for the sale and not been sold at a higher price. Shopping around is also important because different shops may sell the same goods at markedly different prices making a mockery of sale prices.

Also for the first time this year, shops cannot quote recommended retail prices on major electrical goods to show price savings.

Quality

Goods bought in a sale or at a reduced price should perform the same as full priced goods and be of Satisfactory Quality. If they are not the buyer can claim a refund or compensation. However, if specific defects are brought to the buyers attention or the goods are sold as seconds or shop soiled, the buyer will not have a legal right to return them and will be reliant on the goodwill of the seller to resolve any problems.

Credit

Consumers should look for the Annual Percentage (APR) to compare the real cost of credit deals. Interest free offer mean that you (the consumer) will pay no more than the cash price quoted for goods bought, but there is not an automatic right to this facility and it can be refused.

Anything costing over £100 bought using a credit card gives the buyer legal rights against the credit card company as well as the seller which can be useful if the seller goes out of business. Shops are also allowed to charge more if goods or services are bought on credit card but this must be made clear prior to the transaction.

Consumers can check out their legal rights if they have problems with faulty items by telephoning 01203 831833.

Councillor Linton of the Environment and Transportation Policy Team has the following message for bargain hunters.

"Leaflets which are geared to giving people the information they need to Christmas shop with confidence and avoid unnecessary and sometimes costly mistakes can be obtained from Your Living Environment (One Stop Shop Opening 17.12.98)."