BUSINESSES across Donegal are being urged to vigilant amid the rise in reported counterfeit bank notes.

Gardaí have warned that it has come to their attention that fake Bank of England £20 Sterling notes were in circulation in Bundoran on Sunday, September 14.

A garda spokesperson said: “A man entered a business premises at Main Street, Bundoran, and between approximately 5pm and 5.30pm, he handed over a number of these notes. Unfortunately, the man had already left the premises when the notes were discovered to be fake.

“He is described as being of stocky build and wearing all black, white trainers and a black baseball cap. CCTV is being viewed from the area but we appeal to anyone who may have travelled at Main Street, Bundoran between 4.30pm and 6pm on that date with a dash-cam to please get in touch with us. Gardaí in Ballyshannon may be contacted on (071)9858530.”

Businesses owners are being urged to ensure that their staff are aware to always check bank notes thoroughly at points of payment.

“In relation to this particular type of note check the area where the foil patch with a 3D image of the Coronation Crown is located on the top left side. The patch peels off the fraudulent notes that were discovered on Sunday and the wording ‘prop money’ is printed underneath. The same type of fraudulent ‘prop money’ £20 notes were also in circulation in Buncrana and Letterkenny in recent times.

“They look like good copies at first glance but always take a closer look and be vigilant. Shop/business owners, please advise your staff in relation to these dud notes. Don’t be caught out.”