Aspiring models in Lancashire warned over agencies

Aspiring models are being urged by trading standards officers to be wary of dishonest modelling agencies which are thought to be touring Lancashire.

Adverts are placed in local newspapers saying photography sessions are free, but people can be asked to sign a contract and pay up to £400.

They are then promised work which never materialises, trading standards said.

The warning comes after they received eight complaints after a photography session in Lancaster earlier this year.

Jim Potts, Lancashire's chief trading standards officer, said: "Be aware that the market for models and actors is very small, and be wary of any adverts which do not name the company.

"If you do have a name, check them on the internet and you may find lots of reasons to be wary."