Stansted: Counterfeit merchandise featuring Disney’s hit film Frozen seized by airport’s Border Force

Children’s clothing was among £10,000 worth of fake Disney merchandise confiscated by officials at Stansted airport after it arrived from China earlier this month.

Dresses and bags featuring characters from the animated film Frozen were destined for sale on UK streets but will now be destroyed.

There were 490 dresses and three bags found in the haul which has prompted a investigation by Border Force’s International Trade Team.

The group specialises in recognising counterfeit products and works with the owners of big brands to establish whether or not goods are genuine.

In this case Disney confirmed the products were fake and also have the option to prosecute the importer privately if they want to.

James Morgan, assistant director in charge of Border Force at Stansted, said: “Everyone loves a bargain, but if the price appears too good to be true – either at a car boot sale, a market stall or online – it probably is.

“The international trade in counterfeit goods is linked to serious and organised crime and undercuts honest traders, damaging our economy.

“We are determined to crack down on this crime and we have officers working 24 hours a day at ports, airports and mail sorting centres identifying counterfeit goods before they reach the streets.

“Members of the public can also help to disrupt this trade by ensuring they only buy from genuine retailers.”

Anyone who has been sold counterfeit goods or knows someone who is selling them should contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.