A WARNING has been given about counterfeit £5 notes which are circulating in the Ilkley area.

West Yorkshire Police Ilkley ward officer PC Sam Buckley gave the alert at a parish council meeting in the town this week.

PC Buckley urged local people to check their polymer notes to make sure they are genuine.

The Bank of England has issued a checklist of features to look out for, including -

*The see-through window and the clearly defined portrait of the Queen.

*The Elizabeth Tower, which should be gold on the front and silver on the back.

*The coloured border around the window should change from purple to green.

*The foil patch should change from 'Five' to 'Pounds'.

*The coronation crown which should appear 3D.

* The word BLENHEIM should be printed clearly in the circular green foil patch on the back of the note.

The public is also advised to check the feel of the polymer and the raised print, as well as the quality of the printing. The notes also have microlettering and an ultra-violet feature.