A warning has been issued by a crime agency over counterfeit £50 bank notes being passed around in Hampshire.

The National Crime Agency is warning retailers and the public about a batch of the Bank of Ireland £50 notes that are being used by Irish men across the county.

The agency said the notes are of an old design, do not feature a hologram and are green in colour.

One of the men is said to have a shaved head with a beard and wearing all black clothing. The other suspect has an untidy beard and wearing grey jogging bottoms with Nike trainers and a black jacket.

A statement said: "In view of this, police are advising that people should only accept the new style (purple) £50.

"If anyone passes or attempts to pass you the old style green £50 note, this should be declined and consideration given to contacting the police."

All genuine sterling notes feature a watermark and the name of the bank in raised print.