Police are studying CCTV footage to try and catch a man who used counterfeit notes at two different stores in Cheshire Street, Market Drayton.

A fake £10 note was used to pay for goods in WHSmith, and a fake £20 note was handed over in Beauty Fresh on Friday at about 4pm.

Police believe the same man was responsible for both incidents, and are now warning shop staff to be extra vigilant when serving customers.

They are also urging staff to check all notes used to pay for goods before accepting payment, and to ensure notes are genuine before handing over any goods or change.

The man is described as white, in his 30s or 40s, about 5ft 2in and of stocky or large build. He had a bald head and was wearing a dark bomber jacket, dark trousers and had highly polished shoes on.

A similar incident took place in Oswestry last month.

A woman was conned into exchanging a bank note for a counterfeit one, when a man approached her on the Bailey Head.

The man asked if he could exchange a £20 note for two £10 notes, but it transpired the £20 was a photocopy.

Police spokesman Richard Ewels said retailers were being warned about the problem of fake being used in the area following the two incidents.

He said: “We are now just urging people to be aware.”

Officers are examining CCTV footage from Market Drayton’s town centre and have appealed for anyone who might know the man’s identity, or have any other information which might help police to contact them on 08457 444888 or, anonymously, on 0800 555111.