SHOPKEEPERS and customers alike are being warned to be vigilant after fake notes and commemorative coins were found to be circulating in the North Hampshire area.

Local police have urged shop staff to scrutinise the money which customers give them, while shoppers have been advised to check their change.

An Alton police spokesman said: ÒCounterfeit money can turn up anywhere, so people in Alton should be on the lookout, especially now that fakes have been detected in surrounding towns.

ÒMembers of the public are more at risk than retailers, because retailers have the means at their fingertips to check money for authenticity, whereas members of the public do not.Ó

Last summer a quantity of forged £10, £20 and £50 notes were found in Bordon, Lindford, Headley and Grayshott, forcing police officers to issue warnings and instructions on spotting the fake notes.

Anyone who comes across a fake note is asked to contact Alton police station, because if they try to pass the note on they will be committing a criminal offence.