POLICE are trying to trace a man who conned a Downend resident out of a laptop by buying it using fake £20 notes.

They say the man in the picture, captured by a doorbell camera, used several counterfeit notes to buy the computer, which he picked up at around 5pm on January 21.

A police spokesperson said: “The item was advertised for sale on an online social media marketplace, and we have received similar reports where counterfeit notes have been used in other areas across Avon and Somerset.

“We are following lines of enquiry in relation to this incident, have carried out CCTV enquiries and intelligence checks, but we are now appealing to the public to come forward with information on the identity of the man, who we believe may have information which could assist our enquiries.”

The man is described as black and around 5ft 10in tall.

He was wearing a gilet and a sweatshirt with the hood up.

Anyone who thinks they know who the man is should call 101 or contact the police online and quote the crime reference number 5226 027 249.

Inspector Barny Mabbett said a series of frauds using the forged notes had been reported.

He said: “Officers are investigating multiple incidents where the victims have advertised an electrical item for sale online, with the offenders later attending their home addresses and paying for the item with counterfeit currency.”

Police are issuing advice to spot the fake notes, and asking people to:

*Look out for three serial numbers repeatedly appearing on the fakes: YA09 592802, DK57 985923 and DK92 639731.

*Check the hologram image, which should change between “Twenty” and “Pounds” when tilted on a genuine note.

*Check the transparent window has clearly-defined images and edges.

*Check for raised print, especially on the words ‘Bank of England’, on a genuine note.

*Not accept a note that feels unusual, appears blurry or lacks security features.

They are advising anyone who is offered a fake note not to confront those involved but to record information including descriptions of people and vehicles, and to keep hold of the fake note if it is safe to.

Businesses are being advised to notify their bank and share information to help prevent the notes circulating more.