TEENAGERS from Swindon will be putting their consumer knowledge to the test tomorrow aiming to be crowned sharpest shoppers.

Students from New College are representing the town at the southern region finals of the Young Consumers of the Year Competition.

The competition will be held in Wantage Civic Hall, at 12.30pm.

Teams of young people aged 14 to 17 will be tested on their knowledge of consumer rights, environmental issues, business, money, food, Europe, travel and personal safety.

New College will be competing against teams from Bedfordshire, West Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Gloucestershire (the reigning champions).

Swindon Council's trading standards department is supporting the competition as part of its consumer education strategy.

Robert Taylour, the borough's public protection group leader, said: "I am delighted that these students are taking part in this prestigious competition.

"This is a great opportunity for young people to learn about consumer issues in an environment that is difficult to achieve in the classroom.

"For the regional heat the questions will be asked in a similar way to University Challenge, but the main emphasis will be on having a fun and enjoyable event."