Residents and businesses in Cumnock are on guard after reports of 'fake' bank notes in circulation around the area.

The notes are believed to have been around for the past couple of weeks, with them becoming more common in the last few days.

Central Garage in Cumnock is currently not accepting Bank of England £5 notes "due to the amount of fakes in circulation".

It is also believed that some Bank of England £10 notes are being replicated.

Other shops in the area, including the Ayrshire Hospice, have taken in the fake cash in the past few days.

Most of the businesses along Townhead Street and the rest of the town are aware of the issue, and will be taking extra measures to prevent counterfeit cash being passed around.

A Police Scotland spokesperson told the Chronicle: "We are not aware of counterfeit currency being circulated in Cumnock but anyone who deliberately uses counterfeit currency is committing a crime and we will investigate all instances reported to us. 

"If you suspect you may have received one of these notes or have information about those using them  you should call police on 101."

East Ayrshire Council Trading Standards have also been contacted for comment.