THE Banking Hub in Wellington has put out a warning about counterfeit notes in circulation in the town.

They are asking the community to stay vigilant to help keep the community safe.

Banking Hub operator Steve Smith said: “We want to make everyone in the Wellington community aware that we are currently seeing an unusually high number of counterfeit bank notes in circulation.

“Please take extra care when handling cash. If you’re unsure what to look out for or how to spot a counterfeit note, don’t hesitate to pop in and speak to a member of our team at the Wellington Banking Hub – we’re here to help.”

There are things that people can look for, Steve says, to check if notes are fake. These include the colour looking ‘off’, a raised sticker on the note, the absence of braille, matching serial numbers, no King or Queen head in the window or a missing Big Ben in the window.

A comprehensive guide has been posted on the Wellington Bank Hub Facebook page with more hallmarks of fake notes including the use of the hologram, the feel of the note, the change of colour when tilted which are included in modern bank notes, and various checks that can be undertaken using a UV light.

Extra guidance on identifying counterfeit notes can be found on the Bank of England website including a video on the key security features on banknotes: www.bankofengland.co.uk/banknotes/counterfeit-banknotes/how-to-check-your-banknotes

Steve adds that any counterfeit notes presented to the Hub are required to be impounded and they cannot be returned. If you suspect you may have been passed a suspicious bank note, do not return it to the person who gave it to you but report it to the Banking Hub or authorities.

The Avon and Somerset Police have been approached for a comment.