RUGBY fans are being urged to be on their guard against fake ticketing scams ahead of next year’s World Cup.

Matches will be staged at St James Park in Newcastle and reigning world champions New Zealand will train in Darlington.

Tickets for the competition next September are due to go on general sale on Friday, September 12, and trading standards officials are urging fans to avoid being ripped off by rogue websites.

Joanne Waller, Durham County Council’s head of environment, health and consumer protection, said: “We would urge rugby fans from around the county to take care and not be tempted by the lure of cheap or discounted tickets available online.

“Buying tickets through unauthorised sources may lead to you losing your money or even being targeted for committing fraud if you have handed over personal and financial details.

“Turning up on match days with counterfeit or illegally sourced tickets would inevitably lead to you being refused entry at the turnstiles.”

For more information, visit rugbyworldcup.com or call the consumer helpline on 03454-04-05-06.