A FACEBOOK trader from Pontypool has been ordered to carry out 60 hours of community service after he was caught selling counterfeit clothes on Facebook.

Arron Black of Garndiffaith was selling fake jackets and shoes displaying the brands of Adidas, Nike, Timberland, Ralph Lauren and North Face.

He was caught following an investigation by Torfaen’s trading standards team.

Black pleaded guilty to five charges in relation to the fraudulent use of trademarks at Cwmbran Magistrates Court on Monday October 1, 2018.

He received a community order of 60 hours of unpaid work and made to pay costs of £613.52, and a victim surcharge of £85.

Councillor Fiona Cross, Executive Member for Planning and Public Protection, said: “Our trading standards team work hard to keep consumers in Torfaen safe.

“Selling fake goods is a serious criminal offence which undermines legitimate businesses. When you buy counterfeit goods you are supporting criminal traders. These products are generally poor quality and can be dangerous. They are often associated with supporting organised crime and terrorism.

“People selling fake goods risk a heavy fine or imprisonment, having their financial affairs investigated and all goods being confiscated."

Anyone with information about counterfeit goods can contact the joint Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen trading standards team on 01633 647623 or trading.standards@torfaen.gov.uk