HOUSEHOLDERS in York were warned today to beware Christmas tree lights which could give them an electric shock.

City of York Council's trading standards officers have suspended the supply of any further sets of 100 "Classic Christmas Fairy Lights" to shops.

They say they suspect that some sets already sold to shoppers in York may fail to protect the user adequately against electric shocks.

Colin Rumford, the council's acting head of environmental health and trading standards, said: "The lights which concern us have clear bulbs and can be identified by the name Classic Christmas and the item number 7200022.

"We have had some of the lights tested with the result that it was possible for live parts to be pushed out of the plastic lampholders.

"Should this occur while the lights are in use, there is a clear risk of electric shock."

Officers are advising anyone who has purchased a set of the lights to examine the lampholders while they are disconnected from the mains supply.

If any sets have exposed bare wires or terminals around the lampholders consumers should take them back to the shop from where they were purchased.

Mr Rumford said: "Above all, if you have a set of these lights, be extra careful not to handle them or allow children to do so while they are switched on.

"For example, make sure you disconnect the lights from the mains before attempting to replace any bulbs.

Councillor Derek Smallwood, the council's executive member for the environment, said: "These lights have been supplied in quite large quantities by a number of retailers in the UK for some years.

"Many sets may be perfectly safe to use but it is our duty to draw the attention of consumers to this potential threat to their health and safety.

We would like to wish everyone a happy and safe Christmas."

Updated: 08:17 Thursday, December 20, 2001