It's FREE to use Flog.co.uk. There's no commissions or fees to pay and there's no need to register. Simply use the search box to find what's being flogged.

You can search using words and descriptions and we will find all the flog items that meet your search terms and rank them in order of relevance.

We will give the postcode and the distance you are from the seller (which is why we need your postcode) and you then simply contact the seller by email or phone for more information.

We have no involvement or responsibility for the transaction between you and the seller and give no guarantees as to the accuracy of the information on our website.

• Contact the seller and gather as much information before you agree to buy.

• Ask for more pictures if necessary.

• Go and view the item before you agree to buy.

We've all heard stories of the pitfalls of buying online, so minimise your risk. Paying by cheque and paypal are not always 100% secure. Escrow.com is a service that could be considered for higher value items.

Try and buy locally and pay with cash if possible. Be aware of personal security - if paying by cash travel with a friend or family member.

If practical arrange to view, collect and pay for the item in a public place.

Not everyone is bad - but common sense considerations as to your personal safety should feature in your plans if you're planning to buy something from a stranger.