POLICE are investigating the use of fake bank notes in shops in Ryedale.

An appeal by North Yorkshire Police said that the counterfeit notes were used on Tuesday in shops "in the Norton and Malton areas."

Officers are now asking any further victims to come forward.

A number of enquiries are being carried out in the area following the incidents.

A police spokesperson confirmed that the notes were of the £20 denomination, and that they were used in shops on Commercial Street in Norton.

They also drew attention to guidance from the Bank of England on how to spot forged notes.

For £20 notes, the BoE advice says to check for the holographic strip particular to that note, as well as the watermark, raised print, microlettering, metallic thread and ultraviolet features.

New £10 notes are to be issued this summer, following the recent launch of the new polymer £5 notes.

New £20 notes will be launched before 2020.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact police by calling 101, selecting option 2, and asking for PC 1616 Gemma Thwaites.

Information can be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Quote reference 12170079651.