Warning over fake notes circulating in Basildon

Police are warning members of the public about fake notes being used in Basildon.

So far at least two incidents have been reported to police in June, 2012.

In the first, a woman tried to use six counterfeit notes to pay for a meal she had eaten with four other people at The Honey Pot at Festival Leisure Park in Basildon on Sunday, June 10, 2012. She made off when confronted at about 9.30pm, leaving the restaurant £90 out of pocket.

In the second, a man approached a shopper in Allcures Pharmacy in Clay Hill Road at 5.20pm on June 15, 2012 and asked her if he could exchange his two ten pound notes for a twenty. The woman then realised the notes were counterfeit.

Investigating officer, Pc Paul Hogben, said: "There seems to be quite a few fake notes in circulation across Basildon at the moment, so we are advising shops to ensure they check all money correctly.

"Also, if you are approached by anyone and asked to swap money, please be wary of their request. If you suspect their intentions are dishonourable, please let police know.”

Anyone with any information about either incident is asked to contact Pc Paul Hogben at the Basildon area investigation team on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.