Shopkeepers are warned to be vigilant after fake £50 notes were used to buy items at businesses across Norfolk.

Two incidents took place today. Two men in their 20s entered a shop in Church Street, Cromer and purchased items using a fake £50 note.

In a second incident, in the High Street, Coltishall two men attempted to purchase items with a fake £50 note but were unsuccessful.

Both men were white, of medium build, with dark hair and strong Irish accents. One of the men had a large scar on the left-hand side of his head.

A third incident took place in a store in Larkman Lane in Norwich yesterday.

A woman, described as being white and in her 50s, entered the store with a young girl and paid for items with a fake £50 note before leaving.

Retailers are being urged by police to take crime prevention measures, such as using a UV light or a testing pen, which will indicate whether a note is genuine.

Police investigations are ongoing.

Anyone who is offered counterfeit notes, or has any information about those involved in the circulation of counterfeit money, can contact Norfolk police on 101. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.