Police are warning local businesses and residents following several reports of fake bank notes being used across the county.

Four offences have been reported over the last two weeks, in Bishop's Stortford, Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead and St Albans, with more than £1,000 in fake notes being handed over.

In the majority of the reported cases, fake £10 and £20 notes were used to buy items purchased via Facebook Market Place. One seller was paid £400 in fake notes, which were described as having a new crisp feel and on close inspection had clear tape or cellophane strips across the notes. Another report said that all the notes had the same serial number on them.

Detective Inspector Pete Hankins, from the constabulary's Serious Fraud and Cyber Unit said: "We're urging people to be vigilant when accepting payment in cash and make sure to examine the notes carefully. You can find out how to spot fake bank notes by visiting the Bank of England site.

"In the event that you identify the notes as counterfeit, after a transaction has been completed, do not dispose of the notes or pass them to a bank. Please contact Hertfordshire Constabulary by calling 101 and an officer will arrange collection for examination."

For more tips on avoiding fraud visit: www.herts.police.uk/cyber-fraud.