Stephen Clarkson, 36, of High Meadows, Greetland, Halifax, and director of Custom Design UK Ltd, was handed an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, at Bradford Crown Court.

In 2016, West Yorkshire Trading Standards (WYTS) received information from Surelock, which represents numerous trademark holders that Custom Design UK Ltd was selling counterfeit clothing through an eBay account.

In January 2017, during an inspection of the firm’s registered office, WYTS seized heat transfers as well as items of clothing bearing various music and sporting trademarks, including Foo Fighters and Adidas.

A computer was also seized and after forensic examination it was discovered to contain software which was used to create the heat transfers.

David Lodge, Head of West Yorkshire Trading Standards Service said: “We welcome the punishment given to Mr Clarkson as it sends a warning to others that counterfeiting is a serious crime and will not be tolerated.”

Councillor Jo Hepworth, Chair of the West Yorkshire Joint Services Committee, which oversees the work of Trading Standards, added: “Counterfeiting is not a victimless crime and costs the UK economy billions of pounds annually which threatens the livelihood of legitimate businesses that can ultimately result in job losses.

“This goes to show protecting legitimate businesses is a priority of West Yorkshire Trading Standards Service.”

Clarkson must complete 280 hours of community service and there will be a Proceeds of Crime Act hearing at a later date.

The above reporting courtesy of The Telegraph and Argus