TRADING standards staff are advising people of their rights before taking back faulty or unwanted Christmas gifts.

Firstly, they remind shoppers that it is up to the seller, not the manufacturer, to remedy problems.

Angela Lomax, Bury's principal trading standards officer, says that goods must be safe, of satisfactory quality, and not damaged unless the vendor has pointed out a fault. They must also be as described by the seller or on the packaging or display sign.

Customers are entitled to a refund if the goods do not comply with these rules, on condition that they are returned promptly: if not, your rights may limited to a repair.

Buyers have the same rights when they buy something in a sale. However, you cannot ask for a refund if any defects have been pointed out.

Shops do not have to do anything if goods are returned because they are merely unwanted or the wrong size or colour. Any offer made by the shop is simply goodwill.

For refunds, a receipt will often be needed, although credit card slips or bank statements may also provide proof of purchase.

Finally, people are not entitled to a refund if the goods bought have subsequently been reduced in a sale. However, some credit companies will refund the difference.

Anyone with concerns is urged to phone trading standards on 253 5566.