CHARITY wristbands are a craze that is sweeping the country.

However, Halton Council's consumer protection service is advising people to be on the look out for overpriced and counterfeit bands.

People are urged to only buy wristbands directly from the charity that they wish to support.

Genuine bands should be sold for between 70p and £1 with all of the proceeds going to charity.

But officers in Halton have found bands being sold in outlets for as much as £5 - with no evidence of any of the money reaching the designated charity.

Anyone who suspects counterfeit bands are being sold in any shops in Halton can call the consumer protection tip off line on 07746-390696.