Businesses and shoppers are being urged to make sure they're not passed counterfeit £20 notes.

The warning follows the arrest of two Trafford men this week.

The Safer Trafford Partnership says a large number of 'poor quality' notes - detectable by their colour and paper standard - are in circulation in the Altrincham and Sale area.

Operation pride project manager Keith Thomas explained: "Two men were arrested this week for using poor quality counterfeit £20 notes to purchase goods in Altrincham and Sale.

"It is possible other offenders may have more of these notes and have the same dishonest intent.

"I urge all business personnel to be aware and vigilant when accepting twenty pounds notes for payment of goods.

"A quick comparison with a genuine £20 note should easily identify this particular forgery."

For further information on operation pride phone 0161 856 8676