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richmondcahulogan

STOKE City fans have been warned to be wary of fake FA Cup merchandise after trading standards officers seized a quantity of counterfeit memorabilia.
Trade watchdogs from Stoke-on-Trent City Council found a trader in Tunstall selling a small quantity of faked mugs and T-shirts.

The items displayed the trademarks name 'Stoke City' and pictures of the FA Cup which cannot be copied without the permission of the club and Football Association.

The seizure follows an unrelated raid eight weeks ago on a pub in the Stoke area where another quantity of goods bearing the Stoke City 'Potters' badge were confiscated.

Tony Oakman, director for adult and neighbourhood services, said: "There has been a noticeable increase in the levels of fake Stoke City goods being sold now that the club has been successful in reaching the FA Cup semi-final.

"In this instance, the trader was found to have only a small number of goods, and has been given a stern warning."

Traders who are selling goods in the run up to Stoke City's Wembley appearance on 17 April can get advice from trading standards by calling 01782 234234. Anyone wishing to report the sale of counterfeit merchandise can contact the council's fake goods hotline on 01782 238444.