SHOPPERS have been warned against Romanian fraudsters selling fake jewellery in Warrington town centre.

The Eastern Europeans have been operating in teams, selling gold coloured rings and necklaces.

Warrington Trading Standards has seized a number of the rings following reports that they have a mark similar to a hallmark on the inside of their shank - bearing 18k' and 750'.

Shoppers may be tempted by the apparent bargain as the rings look genuine - and both these marks are industry standard terms to describe an 18 carat alloy containing 750 parts per thousand of gold.

But despite these marks and the appearance of the rings, they contain no gold whatsoever.

Edwina Greenwood, Warrington Trading Standards principal officer, said: "Be on your guard if you are approached by people trying to sell these rings.

"These gangs have been very active and appear to be sweeping the country."

A check on similar rings that were being sold in Scotland revealed that they were predominately copper zinc alloy.

And reports have been received that the rings have even turned someone's finger green due to the high amount of copper.

If you are approached, or have bought one of these products, contact Trading Standards on 0845 4040 506.