ELDERLY Asian residents are warned to be vigilant, after a lottery scam was reported on several occasions in Hitchin.

The scam sees people targeted in town centres by people claiming to have won the lottery, but having no identification to cash the winning ticket.

Residents are asked to claim the winnings on behalf of the offenders, providing their own cash to them first as a security against the ‘winnings’.

Two male offenders were involved in each incident, with offences also reported in Watford.

Detective Constable Jennifer Stoddart is investigating. She said: “We would really like the elderly, particularly elderly members of the Asian communities, to be on their guard following this series.

“The people carrying out this scam are opportunists and I would urge any member of the public who sees anything suspicious, or who may have been approached by anyone stating they have a winning lottery ticket to come forward. We need your assistance to help bring these people to justice.”

Anyone with information can contact Dc Stoddart on the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference G1/11/2349 or alternatively Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.