POLICE are warning companies to beware of bogus advertisers following a spate of incidents on Teesside.

Cleveland Police have received several complaints about people purporting to be selling advertising space and demanding payment before evidence of the advert has been seen by the customer.

A police spokesman said: "As a general guide, reputable providers of services will not seek payment in advance of their work."

He suggested that if businesses have already signed agreements and given their bank details, they should carefully scrutinise their accounts to ensure that no unauthorised withdrawals have been made.

Further advice is available by calling the fraud investigation team on (01642) 301 414.