Swindon trading standards officers are warning parents to be on their guard against some brands of Halloween masks and capes, after tests showed that some could easily catch fire if exposed to a flame.

The products identified as dangerous are the Premier Halloween Cape, available at 99ers, Poundstretchers and Partners shops, the Screamer Mask and Hood from Birthdays and the Fearsome Faces Mask from Giggles. A total of 25 Halloween items were tested by trading standards officers to ensure they complied with the Toy Safety Regulations and European Safety Standards.