An MP has waded into a row over a shop slammed for selling posters and greetings cards emblazoned with swear words.

Grandmother-of-six Linda Simpson says she was horrified by the products on sale at Pulp – an alternative store in the Manchester Arndale, which specialises in music and pop culture inspired fashions and gifts.

Mrs Simpson, 62, from Moston, first complained to Arndale bosses last August and called for the ‘disgusting' items to be removed from public view.

She claims she raised her concerns with management on a further two occasions but, five months on, the products are still on display near the entrance in view of passing shoppers.

Now, Blackley MP Graham Stringer has taken up the case on her behalf and has written to store bosses to call for the goods to be removed from sale.

He said: "I reported it to the Arndale management and they said they would take action but it appears that nothing has been done. I think this kind of material should not be on display as the language is inappropriate and could be seen by families."

Mrs Simpson said: "I’m not a prude but these cards and posters are littered with swear words and are disgusting.

"I am concerned that children could wander into the shop and see them – the messages are totally obscene and should not be displayed in public."

A spokesman for Pulp said warning signs had been placed on the display units and the more controversial cards were placed higher up to stop children reading them.

He added: "Following this complaint, we took responsible action and ensured that, for the sake of goodwill, we agreed the positioning of the cards with the centre management and put up signs. These cards are incredibly popular with both our target audience and old customers who would like a fun, irreverent gift.

"Our products do not appeal to everyone, as any niche brand will experience, and from time to time, someone may take offence against some of the stock we sell."

Glen Barkworth, general manager of the Arndale, said: "Whilst we have met with the retailer and expressed concerns, unfortunately, we are not in a position to dictate what they should and shouldn’t sell. The matter now rests with them to resolve this issue."