TRADING standards officials have issued a warning about fraudsters targeting elderly people.

The deception begins with an unsolicited phone call which purports to have been made from Canada.

The caller informs the recipient that they have won a substantial amount of money in the Canadian national lottery - but that, before they can receive their winnings, they have to pay a certain amount of money due to currency or tax laws.

However, the prize never materialises.

Elizabeth Levett, trading standards manager for the York area, said: "While we are constantly warning people against bogus prize draws and promotions, this one is of particular concern because of the amount of money involved.

"Typically, 'winners' are being asked to pay ten per cent of their 'prize' - usually about £2,000. And the caller appears to be particularly plausible and convincing.

"We are in touch with the Office of Fair Trading about the activities of this company, but we would urge people not to be tempted by the empty promises of such bogus companies."