BUSINESSES are being advised to be on the alert for a batch of counterfeit notes.

Police in Darlington recovered a number of fake notes which were used at one premises in the town on Saturday evening, but believe more may be in circulation.

PC Graeme Hopkirk, of Darlington police, said although these incidents are rare, businesses andmembers of the public should remain vigilant, particularly if they receive £20 notes. He said three notes had so far been recovered.

PC Hopkirk added: "We are aware that fake £20 notes are circulating in the Darlington area. However, the issue may not be restricted solely to this value.

"To identify counterfeit currency, people should check the note against one that is known to be genuine; the difference will be obvious.

"If anyone comes into possession of counterfeit notes they should contact the police on 0345-60-60-365 and note the details of the description of the person involved and any car they may be using."

He said counterfeit notes were readily identifiable. A number of security features on genuine bank notes were either absent or poorly imitated in the counterfeit version.

They included the quality of the paper and its print, some of which is raised, a metallic thread embedded in notes, a watermark and foil and ultraviolet features.

Anyone with information about people using counterfeit notes or coins, or involved in making them, is asked to contact Durham Police on 0345-60-60-365 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.