Susan Thackery, from Handsworth, developed burns down her arms, back and legs soon after taking delivery of a pair of cream sofas and a recliner from Argos.

The 57-year-old was unable to leave her home when her skin became so swollen and tender it was too painful to get dressed.

For months the mum of two had no idea what was causing the skin problem and her GP was also baffled.

But the mystery was solved when 13 months after buying the furniture a relative saw a report on TV consumer programme Watchdog about others people claiming they had suffered sofa burn injuries.

It is believe a chemical placed inside the sofas to protect them against mould during storage caused the injuries.

"It started off like an attack of sunburn and it got worse and worse," said Susan.

"I couldn't work out what was the problem and neither could my GP who gave me lots of medication.

"I was suffering so much I had to have four baths a day and I was constantly putting cream on. I became a prisoner in my own home as I was in so much pain I couldn't go out "

Susan said her skin only stopped cracking and bleeding when she stopped using her furniture because it was taken into storage before a house move.

"Within a week it was getting better," she said.

Susan - who is launching a claim for compensation - added: "I honestly would not want anyone else to go through what I've been suffering."Craig Barker, associate solicitor at Sheffield law firm Wake Smith & Tofields which is dealing with her case, said Susan had suffered "significant injuries".

"We understand the cause of these 'sofa burns' is Di-methyl Fumarate a chemical known to cause skin irritation. This fungicide is contained within a sachet which is placed inside the sofas in order to protect against mould during storage, transit and everyday usage. Argos' independent investigations have confirmed these results."

Argos said it had withdrawn the 'potentially' affected items.

"Customers who purchased these products were offered a refund or an appropriate alternative product," said a company statement.

"All claims on this issue are being handled by our insurers.''





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