WAREHOUSES suspected of supplying potentially dangerous counterfeit toys for sale in Blackburn have been shut down.

In a huge Trading Standards operation, 20,000 toys, worth around £100,000, were seized from a string of warehouses across Salford.

As reported in the Lancashire Telegraph earlier this week, 200 counterfeit toys were seized from a Blackburn Market stall, and trader Julie Eddleston warned others to be on their guard, saying she had bought the toys in good faith.

Trading Standards officers are also investigating allegations that the toys have been on sale in other Blackburn discount stores.

It is thought the counterfeit toys, which included Spongebob Squarepants, Bratz, Barbie, Batman and Doctor Who brands, were made in China to take advantage of a predicted toy shortage in the run-up to Christmas.

The legitimate industry was hit by widespread recalls of toys by the world's largest manufacturer Mattel, over concerns about unsafe paint.

Fake Gameboy games were also found at the warehouses, along with unsafe counterfeit Duracell batteries and dangerous mini-motos.

Ms Eddleston, 36, said she was at one of the warehouses to inquire about getting a refund when the premises were searched on Thursday.

She said: "There were officers everywhere and they were taking everything.

"It's brilliant news that they have been closed down - it's been an awful couple of days for me but it's great to know that they can't do it again.

"I have found a new supplier now and I've had Trading Standards down to check everything I've bought so I know 100% what I'm doing.

"The last thing any of us wants to see is dangerous toys being sold to children."

But Neal Atherton, manager of Mercer and Sons toy store in the town, said the only way to be sure stock was genuine was to buy it direct from the suppliers.

He said: "The market is flooded by these kinds of toys every Christmas and they are on sale at discount shops and market stalls all the time.

"Customers need to be vigilant as well and make sure what they are buying is the real thing."

Paula Flynn, principal Trading Standards officer for Salford, said: "This is a very significant seizure.

"We believe it will cut off a supply to the North West and possibly beyond. Tests are being carried out to determine if the toys are unsafe.

"The information on the boxes is in appalling English and there are no 'CE' marks - which they should have by law."

The traders at the warehouses are now being investigated with a view to being charged.