FIRMS in the New Forest are being warned about a phone scam involving calls from bogus police officers.

A businesswoman received a call from someone claiming to a policeman and asking her to “support” fellow officers by donating up to £95.

When the woman said she would have to consult her husband the fraudster hung up. She then rang Hampshire Police, who confirmed the scam.

Acting Chief Inspector Rachel Stokes said: “The police are certainly not contacting people to ask for money to support local officers.

“This is another phone scam and I’d advise everyone to be on their guard if they receive any unsolicited calls in which they’re asked for money, personal information or bank details.”

Last year New Forest businesses were targeted by conman who tried to persuade them to pay for adverts in a non-existent police magazine.