Christmas ruined by dodgy goods and services?

If your past Christmases have been ruined by the turkey not turning up on time, the must-have gadget that's dead on arrival, or the jumper that's four sizes too big, Consumer Direct would like to hear from you.

The government advice service working in partnership with Herefordshire Council's trading standards is encouraging people to share their experiences, good or bad, online at www.consumerdirect.gov.uk/savvy as part of the build-up to National Consumer Week which starts from November 17. This year's theme - 'Be a Savvy Shopper this Christmas' - is focused on helping people avoid the Christmas shopping pitfalls.

Paul Nicholas, Herefordshire Council's acting head of environmental health and trading standards, said: "Goods and services failing to match up to expectations can be very disappointing, particularly at Christmas, but by sharing your experiences, you might be able to help others avoid being caught out."

During National Consumer Week, trading standards officers and Consumer Direct staff will be attending a number of events around the country to answer consumer questions and offer free advice. Details on the events available will be posted at www.consumerdirect.gov.uk/savvy

This is the 18th annual National Consumer Week organised by the Trading Standards Institute (TSI) and the fourth year of Consumer Direct's association.

National Consumer Week is a platform for the TSI to raise awareness about specific consumer issues and highlight new developments in an increasingly complex and competitive marketplace. It profiles the work of and is supported by local authority trading standards services across the UK.