Police have issued a warning to people in Shepton Mallet following reports of a Facebook Marketplace scam circulating in nearby towns.

The scam involves fraudsters arranging to collect high-value items – such as laptops, phones and gaming equipment – then paying with counterfeit banknotes. Victims often don't realise the money is fake until after the exchange.

Avon and Somerset Police said the scam has already been reported in Weston-super-Mare, Bath and Bristol, and they are encouraging Shepton Mallet residents to be on guard.

They recommend sellers take steps such as photographing serial numbers, researching buyer profiles, and arranging exchanges in public or with someone present. It's also suggested to avoid sharing your home address where possible.

Sellers are advised to learn how to recognise counterfeit currency through resources provided by the Bank of England: www.bankofengland.co.uk/banknotes/counterfeit-banknotes/how-to-check-your-banknotes

Anyone affected should report it to police using www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/your-area. If a scam is happening in real time, always call 999.