PEOPLE living in Stockton are being warned to be on their guard against an official-looking council letter that officers from the authority have described as a malicious joke.

Stockton Borough Council has issued the warning following a complaint from a resident, who did not wish to be named, that he had received a letter on council headed paper informing him that three refugees had been allocated to stay with him.

He was told he would be financially compensated.

When the man contacted the council about the letter he was told they do not operate such a scheme.

It is now feared other people in the borough could be targeted with similar, official-looking letters.

John Lambert, principal manager of client services at the council, said: "This is obviously a malicious joke aimed at causing distress to the recipient and we find this sort of act utterly deplorable.

"Anyone who receives such a letter should just ignore it, but if they have any concerns whatsoever they should contact the council on (01642) 393939."