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Trading Standards seizes 1,800 dangerous batteries and chargers in East of England

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

More than 1,800 dangerous replacement batteries and chargers have been removed from sale following a major Trading Standards investigation across the East of England.

Why it matters: The crackdown comes as fire services report an increase in fires caused by lithium-ion batteries and chargers found in common household devices like laptops, mobile phones and power tools.

The big picture: Trading Standards services from nine local authorities tested 22 items purchased primarily from online marketplaces:

  • All items failed to provide legally required information

  • 13 failed basic safety tests, presenting risks of electric shock, fire and explosion

  • One charger purchased by Suffolk Trading Standards from eBay was found to have serious safety failings that could lead to electric shock, fire or explosion

  • Products were removed from major platforms, including Amazon and eBay

Lithium-ion batteries on a wooden table
More than 1,800 dangerous replacement batteries and chargers have been removed from sale following a major Trading Standards investigation across the East of EnglandAlexLMXGetty Images

What you can do: Trading Standards advises residents to:

  • Buy only from trusted sellers

  • Use manufacturer-recommended batteries and chargers

  • Follow product instructions carefully

  • Never leave charging batteries unattended

  • Avoid overcharging or overloading sockets

How to report: Residents who believe they have purchased unsafe products can contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.

Bottom line: Consumers should only buy replacement batteries and chargers from trusted sellers, always use manufacturer-recommended products, and never leave devices charging unattended or overnight. If in doubt about a product's safety, contact Trading Standards through Citizens Advice.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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