CHORLEY'S on-line shoppers will soon be protected by new regulations.

From October 31, consumers who buy goods and services by phone, e-mail, mail order, fax, or on the net can expect to do so with less problems.

Consumers will have the right to receive clear information about products before deciding to buy, and if they do buy they should get confirmation in writing or by fax or e-mail.

They will also have the right to receive their goods within 30 days, and will be entitled to a cooling-off period of seven working days in most cases, during which they can withdraw from a contract.

And companies who cold call consumers at home must be clear about who they represent and exact about what they are offering.

The regulations have been welcomed by county councillor Chris Cheetham, chairman of Lancashire County Council's finance and general purposes sub-committee.

He said: "These regulations are good news for consumers buying goods and services from home. Many consumers feel at a disadvantage when buying at a distance because they are unable to examine a product as they would do when buying in a shop."

Two surveys by Trading Standards discovered more than a third of purchases made on the Internet caused problems involving delayed deliveries, or orders not turning up at all.

And a survey in Lancashire showed holidays which had already been sold or never been available being advertised.

Some had different prices or specifications to what people believed they were buying.

County councillor Cheetham commented: "Internet shopping is becoming more popular and is extremely convenient, however it has its pitfalls and on-line consumers should follow this basic advice."

Try and deal with established traders whose sites have the 'padlock' sign which shows the site has improved security for payment. Make sure you can choose the time and place for delivery, and check to see what it will cost.

Print off a copy of the advertisement and your order with its number, date and details of items purchased.

Pay by credit card for sums over £100, as the card company will be jointly liable if things go wrong.

Beware that if you buy from abroad, or private sellers, you may have difficulty tracing them or pursuing complaints if things go wrong.

Trading Standards also produce a leaflet -- 'Shopping on the Internet' -- copies are available from the Trading Standards office, Guildhall Street, Preston.

Chorley folk can also get help and advice by phoning the Trading Standards helpline on 0845 600 1352, calls charged at local rate.