POLICE are warning businesses to be wary of fake bank notes in circulation in Hampshire.

Counterfeit £50 notes have been circulating in the Isle of Wight since the beginning of October.

Hampshire Constabulary has received eight reports at locations including Niton, East Cowes, Rookley, Carisbrooke and Bembridge.

The notes are described as poor quality and all bear the same serial number AJ65238105.

The edges of the coloured portions of the notes don’t look defined and smudge in places, and bear no water marks or holograms.

According to the victims the notes also feel ‘too thick’ and look like they have been printed on a home computer.

Those tendering them have been men aged in their late teens to early 30s using either intimidating behaviour or distraction techniques to prevent shop workers from checking notes properly.

They usually buy something of low value and offer the note in payment, receiving the change in real currency.

Officers are warning businesses and banks to be aware and take extra care to make checks before accepting £50 notes as a payment for goods or services.

Anyone with information about the notes is asked to call 101 quoting reference number 44170381221.