COPS have issued a warning about fake £50 notes circulating after a conman tricked a business in Biggar.

Lanark Police said that a fake £50 Bank of Ireland note was passed to the business on April 21.

A spokesman for the force added: "Making small purchases using £20 or £50 Bank of Ireland notes is an ongoing scam in the Clydesdale and Borders area.

"Please be vigilant around Bank of Ireland notes."

Fake cash leaves shops with the worthless currency and out of pocket after having given real cash back as change.

It is a criminal offence to hold or pass on a banknote that you know to be counterfeit.

If you believe you have been passed a counterfeit note, contact Police Scotland on 101.