Fake £20 bank notes are still in use in the Lancaster area - police have warned.
Multiple businesses and members of the public have reported a surge in counterfeit notes, said a Lancashire Police spokesperson.
In October, Lancaster BID (Business Improvement District) warned city centre businesses to be vigilant after reports of youths trying to spend fake £20 notes in shops.
Police have issued advice on how to spot a counterfeit note.
- Feel - Real notes have raised print and feel crisp - fake notes are often smooth and glossy
- See through - hold to the light - the hologram should change from 'twenty pounds' to '£20' and you should see a clear portrait window.
- Metallic thread: should appear as a dashed silver line that turns solid when tilted.
- UV check: under UV light, a bright res and green '£20' should glow
- Recent notes have had sellotape covering 'prop note' so check each notes for any concealed print.
Police have asked that people spread the word to any friends that may run a business.
If you think you may have taken fake notes please hand them in to your nearest police station and do not attempt to use them. If you have any CCTV of people using these notes in your store please report this to police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Read more: Warning after youths try to use fake £20 notes in Lancaster shops - Beyond Radio


Man accused of stealing joints of meat at Lancaster Asda by hiding them in his trousers
LISTEN and PHOTOS: Spectacular display of 12,000 poppies unveiled at Lancaster landmark
Eden Project Morecambe boss gives update on early stages of work on new £100m attraction
Lancaster, Morecambe and Carnforth Remembrance services announced
Road closures for pre-Tour de France work announced for Lancaster district
Lancaster rock guitarist braves beard shave for charity
Two arrests made after post office robbery in Lancaster
BBC Philharmonic Orchestra to perform concert for schools at Morecambe Winter Gardens
PHOTOS: Plans go in for major Lancaster regeneration scheme
Lancaster music venue's heartfelt message ahead of final night on New Year's Eve
Morecambe school named among one of England's most improved for attendance
Lancaster hospital nursing boss appointed to University of Cumbria honorary role
Morecambe Football Club placed under another embargo by the National League
£1.5m Lancaster scheme to boost water quality in River Lune is complete
Family pays tribute to Lancaster pensioner who died in road crash
Popular artist's print of Morecambe Bay Academy to be launched at alumni evening
Work set to begin on new Heysham skate park
Light Up Lancaster promises to illuminate city with ‘No Boundaries’
Sadness as Morecambe sports and social club suffers break-in on night of reopening
Man arrested after death of pensioner in Lancaster road crash

