THOUSANDS of 'unsafe hoverboards’ have been seized over the past seven weeks according to latest figures from National Trading Standards.

The council have issued a warning to shoppers to think twice before choosing a product from a site that does not appear genuine.

Officers at UK ports and borders have seen a huge spike in the number of these items arriving in recent weeks with more than 5,000 self-balancing scooters seized.

Peter Astley, assistant director for regulation and public protection, said teams are working around-the-clock to prevent dangerous items entering the supply chain.

He said: “At this time of year, consumers are under pressure to get the best presents for their loved ones, however it is important that their safety is put above all else. Protecting consumers from harm is our top priority and I urge consumers to be on their guard when purchasing products."

Cllr Judith Guthrie, executive board member for environment and public protection, said: “Consumers should not let a new fashion or craze cloud their judgement and remain alert at all times, to avoid taking home an unsafe product.

“Criminals and irresponsible manufacturers will often exploit high demand and attempt to flood the market with cheap and dangerous products.

“Trading standards services take product safety extremely seriously but retailers must share this responsibility, to stop substandard products entering the marketplace.”