ADVICE on how to complain effectively is the latest service on offer in county libraries, thanks to a trading standards campaign.

Encouraging people to know their consumer rights and complain when things are not up to scratch is the aim of the campaign, which will run throughout February and March.

"Many of the calls we get are from people who want to resolve relatively straightforward issues," said Alison Cornelius, who is advice and education manager for Worcestershire County Council's Trading Standards department.

"The problem arises because they are not sure of the best way to approach the shop or business in question."

As a result, trading standards have developed a range of templates to cover the most common problems, such as faulty goods, poor service and unsatisfactory quality.

"Each one can be adapted to the consumer's own needs," said Ms Cornelius.

Advice leaflets are now available in the county's libraries, where people can also use the computers to access and use the wide range of sample letters of complaint on the website www.worcestershire.gov.uk/tradingstandards.

However, trading standards advise consumers to visit the shop in person before resorting to writing a letter.

Officers say it is important to know your rights before you complain and to make sure the complaint is justified.

Tell the trader as soon as you discover a fault and stop using the item you are complaining about, because you may lose the right to reject the goods if you continue to use them.

Make sure you complain to the right person, someone with the authority to sort out the problem and give them a chance to sort it out before threatening court action.

Be polite, insistent and concise, but do not lose your temper, swear, or become personally abusive.

Patience may be needed, because it can take some time to resolve even simple problems.

For specific advice on a consumer issue, call trading standards on 01905 765373.