Shoppers and businesses warned to watch out for fake banknotes (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Fake £20 notes found in Runcorn

9:35am Wednesday 13th February 2013 in News By Barbara Jordan

FAKE £20 banknotes are circulating in shops and businesses across Runcorn.

Traders and customers are being warned to be on their guard and check their money.

Sergeant Iain Hannan, of Runcorn Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: "We have received reports of fake notes popping up in the town and we are advising local businesses to be aware and make the necessary checks to ensure the notes they are given are genuine.

“We are also urging shoppers to remain vigilant and to report any suspected fake notes to police.

"Holding onto counterfeit notes is a criminal offence so if you discover that you are in possession of a fake note, please do not try and use it or pass it on. The advice is to hand it into your nearest bank."

Over the past few weeks a number of incidents involving fake £20 banknotes have been brought to the attention of local police officers.

Businesses are advised to take on board the following advice: • Be vigilant and use a UV marker pen on £20 notes - a genuine note does not absorb the liquid from a UV marker pen.

• Check for raised print − in particular across the bit that says ‘Bank of England′.

• Check the metallic thread − this should appear as a continuous line if held up to the light.

• Check the watermark.

• Check the print quality − the images should be sharp and not blurred.

• Check the hologram.

• Check with ultra-violet light - if you put the note under a UV light its value appears in bright red and green numbers while the rest of the note remains dull.

• Check the microlettering under the Queen′s head as this will give the value of the note written in letters and numerals.

Anyone with any information in relation to fake banknotes in the town is urged to contact police immediately on 101.

Alternatively information can also be given anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.