Police are today warning shop keepers and the general public to be vigilant following a report of counterfeit notes being circulated on the Isle of Wight.
Officers have already advised Island Shopwatch members about the fake £20 notes, but would like to raise awareness to members of the public, including festival goers attending Bestival this week, to check any banknotes they receive in change.
The warning comes after a 31-year-old man and a 24-year-old man were arrested this morning (Friday) on suspicion of fraud.
If you suspect a note is not genuine please take it to your local police station as soon as possible. It is a criminal offence to hold onto or pass on counterfeit notes.
The Bank of England website offers general guidance on how to spot a fake from the real thing. https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/publications/Pages/other/takeacloserlook
Anyone with information can contact DS Simon Driver at Newport DCID by phoning 101. Information can be given anonymously by phoning the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.
