Weigh up the warnings

YOU do not have to settle for second best when it comes to your legal rights in the sales. You have the same protection as at any other time under the Sale of Goods Act.

If the purchase has been marked 'shop-soiled', 'seconds', 'damaged' or 'imperfect' then you cannot expect top quality. It is up to you to ask what is wrong before you buy.

However, if you buy a cut-price cardigan marked 'slightly faded second' and it splits at the seams when you wear it, you are within your rights to complain.

Do not be deterred by signs that say 'No refunds on sale goods'. Such a notice is against the law and does not affect your rights.