POLICE are warning shoppers and staff in Yate and Chipping Sodbury to be vigilant against criminals using fake £20 notes.

The number of forgeries has increased dramatically in recent weeks, prompting police to issue a warning to be extra careful.

Acting Sergeant Neil Whyman said: "We have had a number of reports of forged £20 notes being found at a variety of places in the Yate and Chipping Sodbury area.

"They have been discovered at supermarkets and independent shops. The money is counterfeit so it needs to be handed into us."

He said the notes were good replicas meaning criminals were getting away with buying goods using fake money.

Added Sgt Whyman: "Always check your money, whether as a shopper or a member of staff at the tills."

Avon and Somerset police spokesman Wayne Baker said: "A number of counterfeit notes have been reported in isolated incidents across the Avon and Somerset force area.

"Police are advising businesses – including shops and public houses – to be vigilant and hand in any counterfeit notes."

He added: "Counterfeit notes can be identified by the quality of the paper, the water mark and the presence of the metallic strip."

Call police on 0845 456 7000 with any information.