BOURNEMOUTH Trading Standards are warning Dorset residents against buying amber teething necklaces for their young children.

The necklaces, which are designed to be worn by babies to soothe and calm them while teething, have been found to be a potential choking and strangulation hazard.

Trading standards officers have found the necklaces are being sold online through well-known auction sites and some local traders.

Businesses in Bournemouth have already been contacted by officers and advised to withdraw them from sale.

David Moreton, senior trading standards officer, said: “These particular necklaces have been withdrawn from the market in a number of European countries as a result of the safety issues.

“However, we know that they are still being produced in countries such as Lithuania and being sold via the internet though a number of well-known and established websites.

“I would urge local residents to not purchase these necklaces and put a child’s safety at risk.

“We have examined these products and due to small parts, they pose a potential choking hazard for small children.

“In addition, cords around the neck can catch on fixed objects.”

For information and advice, contact Citizen’s Advice Consumer Advice Line (formerly Consumer Direct) on 08454 040506.