Know your notes in the run up to Christmas

Local Crime Prevention Officers have also provided a useful checklist which can help identify dodgy notes.

1 Feel:The paper should feel stiff and crisp NOT limp waxy or shiny.

2 Compare: Both sides of the note to one that you know is genuine. Any differences will become apparent more easily.

3 Look; Each note has various identifiable features for you to ensure the note is genuine: watermark, security thread amd holograms and foils.

4 Quality of print: Printing should be sharp and well defined with no blurred edges. The colour should be clear and distinct.

5 Serial number - Each note has an individual number which can appear either horizontally and/or vertically on the note,

Police are also reminding people that it is an offence to pass on a bank note that you know or suspect to be counterfeit.

If you do suspect that a note in your possession is a fake, put it in an envelope, think about who gave it to you and contact police as soon as you can.