PUBS have been warned that legal action will be taken against them if they try to rip off festive drinkers. Trading standards officers at Suffolk County Council have issued the warning to pubs, clubs and licensees after they tested spirits at an Ipswich pub.

PUBS have been warned that legal action will be taken against them if they try to rip off festive drinkers.

Trading standards officers at Suffolk County Council have issued the warning to pubs, clubs and licensees after they tested spirits at an Ipswich pub.

During the visit they found several examples of cheap house spirits allegedly being passed off as more expensive branded drinks. The spirits in the optics behind the bar, including Smirnoff vodka, were tested by officers during a visit to the pub before Christmas.

The initial tests revealed that the not only were the spirits not the household names on the bottle but also that these cheaper substitutes had a lower percentage alcohol than the more expensive branded ones drinkers thought they were buying.

Officers suggest this indicates either inferior vodka being used or that the spirit was watered down in some way.

Further tests are now ongoing with a view to legal action against the pub.

Joanna Spicer, portfolio holder for public protection, said: ''Any premise that passes off cheap and inferior spirits for well known ones is not only ripping off their regulars but also gaining unfair advantage over the other honest pubs and clubs.

''Trading standards officers are highly experienced and can easily check suspect spirits if consumers report problems.

''Some rogue landlords and landladies may think this is an easy way to rip off punters without being caught, especially at this time of year with office parties and more revellers out and about. Let me assure them that if we find any other cases like this we will take legal action against the premise.''

Cllr Spicer added: ''I'd ask the public to act as our eyes and ears when out drinking this Christmas. If you want to report any problems with short measure or substituted branded spirits let trading standards know on 01473 264859.''

Shoppers with any general consumer issues over Christmas should call Consumer Direct on 08454 040506 or www.consumerdirect.gov.uk