SHOPPERS in the North-East are being urged to be on their guard after counterfeit money was found to be in circulation.

Police in Stockton have received several reports of counterfeit notes being used and have issued advice to shoppers.

PC Don Young said: "Always check banknotes. Genuine notes have a much higher definition of print, and bear a watermark that is only visible when held to the light.

"The paper feels crisper and is of a higher quality than any counterfeit note."

Anyone finding suspect notes is asked to take them to the nearest police station.