TWO retailers had their stocks of cigarettes confiscated as part of a crackdown on counterfeit brands by Bexley Council.

Trading Standards officers investigated after a resident complained her usual brand of cigarettes tasted different.

The officers found two retailers in possession of counterfeit Benson and Hedges special filter cigarettes.

They were confiscated but enquiries indicated Sidcup is not the only area where these fake products are being sold.

Tony Stringer of Bexley Councils Trading Standards special investigations team said: There are enough risks to smokers without the added burden of being sold a counterfeit product. These cigarettes were being sold as the genuine article, at full retail prices.

We believe we have identified one local distributor, but do not have sufficient evidence to issue proceedings.

Of course, by now, the evidence has literally gone up in smoke.

Officers warn residents to contact their local Trading Standards Department if they feel they are being sold counterfeit goods.

Those found dealing in these goods can be fined or even imprisoned by the courts.

The number for Bexley Council Trading Standards is 020 8303 7777 ext 5107.