A CAMPAIGN is being launched to make sure consumers in east Durham do not get a raw deal this Christmas.

Durham County Council is running a series of workshops across the district of Easington, looking at consumers' rights.

The workshops aim to explain when people can and cannot return presents to a shop and what to expect, plus specific issues like problems with mobile phone contracts.

There will also be advice on housing and homelessness, benefits and employment.

The project will be run by Durham Online Initiative, which aims to help people use the Internet to access more information about their legal rights.

Project leader Chris Keech said: "We will be offering advice on what consumers can do for a range of issues over Christmas gifts, such as what they can do if a piece of clothing is the wrong size.

"We will also be giving advice on where people stand if something has been delivered late."

The first roadshow takes place in Murton Library on Wednesday, January 5, from 10am until noon.

Three of the dates will offer people the chance to be connected direct to the relevant advisor, via a video phone link. The first of these events takes place in Shotton Information Technology Centre on Friday, January 7, from 10am until noon.

For details, contact 0191-383 3716.