RESIDENTS have been warned to be on their guard following reports of a potential holiday scam that is currently circulating around the Island.

Police say they have received a number of reports about people receiving unsolicited telephone calls telling them they had won a free holiday.

The "winner" is then asked to pay the associated administration costs to take up the offer of the holiday and hand over their bank account details.

In one case one person has provided their details and found their bank account has been debited by £800.

Crime prevention officer PC Mike Radcliffe said: "It is unclear at this stage as to whether or not these calls are originating from a genuine company.

"However as in all cases where residents receive unexpected telephone calls making similar offers I would strongly advise that you should never disclose any financial information such as bank or credit card details.

"Be on your guard. If the offer sounds too good to be true then it probably is."

Further information is available from Police Headquarters on 01624 63121 or from the Office of Fair Trading on 01624 686500.