A GANG of men used forged receipts to get refunds on expensive goods at a north Durham supermarket.

Tesco staff handed over more than £500 to the men, who separately went into the store at Dragonville Retail Park, in Durham.

The scam took place on January 27, but it was later discovered that the receipts were fakes. The goods had previously been stolen at other Tesco stores and similar offences have been reported at branches throughout the country.

The police believe that some of the men in the latest incident may have connections to the South Tyneside and Kent areas.

The police would like to speak to three men.

The first man is described as white, in his 30s, about 5ft 10ins, medium build with short, dark, brushed back hair.

The second is white, in his 30s, about 5ft 8ins, stocky, and bald on top of his head with grey hair at the sides. He has a goatee beard and glasses.

The third man is white, in his 20s, about 5ft 10ins tall, average build with short, dark receding hair.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.