Residents across Tendring have handed over thousands of pounds in an overseas lottery scam with no hope of seeing anything back for their money.

Many people living in the district have responded to telephone calls and letters telling them to hand over £2,000 to collect their winnings.

Crime reduction officer Calvin Heal said he was growing increasingly concerned about the number of residents in the district who have been contacted.

"I have been told of two more this week and it just keeps going on and on," he said.

Mr Heal said people are asked to send £2,000 in the form of a special type of banker's draft which cannot then be cancelled.

Mr Heal would also like to hear from anyone who may have been caught out or even approached. He can be contacted on 01255 254020

Published Thursday November 20, 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette