FRAUDULENT letters are being sent to people in North Somerset claiming they have won the European lottery.

Police are warning residents to be on their guard following reports that those receiving letters have been told they have won a substantial amount of money.

The letter asks the recipient to provide personal information and call a number, when they are then told to send money in order to release the winnings.

Community safety department sergeant Dave Hayward, based at Weston, said: "This is a scam - you have to enter a lottery to win it.

"You know if you have bought a ticket and if you win, the instructions on how to claim your prize are on the ticket.

"Legitimate organisations will not ask for your bank details or money in advance before you receive your prize.

"Do not share your personal details such as your bank account information with anyone unless you know exactly who you're dealing with.

"The best advice, if you receive these kinds of letters, is to shred them.

"If you do respond you risk losing a large sum of money."

North Somerset police work in partnership with Consumer Direct and North Somerset Trading Standards to investigate cases of this kind. Anyone believing they have been the subject of fraud should call Consumer Direct on the local rate number 08454 040506 or visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk.