Shoppers looking for bargains on Black Friday and Cyber Monday are being urged to get to know their consumer rights.

Black Friday, on 27 November, is now the busiest shopping day of the year with many retailers running special promotions and discounts. This year shoppers are expected to spend around £6 billion, much of which will be online because of the Covid-19 restrictions in place.

As well as knowing your rights, Staffordshire County Council's trading standards service is also reminding people to be aware of counterfeiters and scammers who are also active at this time of year.

Victoria Wilson, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Trading Standards at Staffordshire County Council's said:

"We all love a bargain and both Black Friday and Cyber Monday have become great opportunities to pick up those Christmas gifts ahead of the day at a snip of the price.

"Even more of the shopping will be done online this year because of Covid-19 restrictions, so it's important that people are aware of the latest consumer rights. Do your research beforehand, check out the comparison websites and shop around.

"Unfortunately, at this time of year, internet shoppers are also increasingly targeted by criminals and scammers, so it's important that shoppers stay alert.

"While all the usual major retailers will be offering deals, we're also reminding people to shop local to help support Staffordshire businesses."

Consumers are legally entitled to a full refund on faulty goods within 30 days of purchase, to challenge unfair terms and conditions and to demand poor services are redone or that there is a price reduction.

People with concerns about shopping online should visit Citizens Advice or call 03454040506.