Police are warning shoppers and retailers in Maidstone to be alert for fake bank notes in the area.

Officers received a report that a man tried to pass a suspected counterfeit £50 note at a restaurant in Week Street on Tuesday, May 1.

The staff declined to accept it and the man left in the direction of Maidstone East railway station.

He is described as white, of large build, and with ginger hair.

Inspector Mark Hedges said: "Shopkeepers are advised to check the feel of the paper, the raised print, metallic strip and watermark. Always use a UV light to check for authenticity if one is available.

"If anyone suspects they have picked up a fake note they should not allow it to go back into circulation and any incidents should be reported immediately."

Anybody who has information that would help our investigations is asked to call Kent Police on 101 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

For further information visit www.bankofengland.co.uk/banknotes.