A JOKE book seller has challenged the council to remove his group from the streets after claiming trading standards officers are powerless to stop them.

Controversial Gag Mag traders have seen complaints against them rise in the two weeks since The Press revealed they were warned about their behaviour.

However, one St Helen’s Square seller says City of York Council and North Yorkshire Police are powerless to prevent them being in the city.

The unnamed man said: “What you need to do is get together and get us out the town, I’m not bothered.  I’ll go to another town but I like coming here because it’s busy, but I can work any other town. 

“ I was in Durham yesterday and Darlington the day before, I don’t always come to York.

“Basically, what you need to do is get in with Trading Standards don’t you, because they can’t do anything, the police can’t do anything, but get together and get rid of us.”

The audacious claims were made when they were questioned about a lengthy list of complaints made against them by readers on The Press’ Facebook page.

They ranged from people accusing them of harassing older generations, abusing women and swearing at passers-by who declined a magazine.

Ronnie Douglas said: “Stop harassing old people.  I’ve seen them doing it all the time.

Vikki Cox Hanson added: “I hate walking past them, they are too pushy.”

“They’re awful.  If you say you don’t want one they still hound you,” added Emily Wharton.

City of York Council’s Trading Standards department has urged people to make formal complaints.

Cllr Nigel Ayre, executive member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism:

“We need to do everything we can to make sure that York remains a friendly and welcoming city.

“There has been some complaints about sellers approaching tourists and passers-by in an aggressive way.

“Where complaints have been raised these need to be properly investigated and appropriate action taken where necessary.”

Matt Boxall, City of York Council’s Trading Standards manager, said: “Following reminders to gag mag sellers about the action we can take, we have received and are, we’re investigating a number of complaints.

“If people have been verbally abused or if they feel they have been misled about goods bought or were pressured into buying – please report it via Citizens Advice Consumer helpline on 03454 040506 or their website and we will investigate.

“Any successful prosecution can only be made with evidence which can include witness statements.”