Fake designer clothes seized from a major counterfeiting operation centred in Stockport have been sent overseas to help the poor.

More than 3,500 garments were confiscated from Navid Salim, 41, in raids by Trading Standards, many from his NS2 shop on Stockport Market Place.

Now a truck load of the bogus clothes – including brands such as Kangol and Bench – will be shipped to people in developing countries by the International Aid Trust.

Salim, whose operation stretched to Cumbria and north Manchester, was sentenced to 300 hours’ unpaid work after admitting 31 counts of selling counterfeit clothes.

He is estimated to have profited to the tune of £350,000 but must pay £200,000 back.

Bernard Cocker, founder of International Aid Trust, said: "The clothing and other goods donated by Stockport Council Trading Standards will be an absolute blessing to people who had once thought that no one cared.

"What the criminals meant for illegal gain is now being turned into vital aid and counterfeit product is now being sent to some of the poorest people in the world."

The case against Salim, of Bury Old Road, Salford, was brought following a number of raids on his shops.

All of the goods seized during the investigation, which have a market value of approximately £100,000, were forfeited to the council.

Councillor Stuart Bodsworth, executive member for the environment said: "I’m delighted that Trading Standards have been able to donate this clothing to charity. It is great to know that people in developing countries will be able to make use of it."

Salim was also given a 12-month suspended prison sentence and ordered to pay legal costs of £46,646.