POLICE are appealing for information after counterfeit cash was used to purchase a motorcycle in St Ives.

The owner posted the electric off-road bike on Facebook Marketplace for £4,700 and was contacted by an interested buyer. A man, aged around 19, arrived to collect the bike on January 23 at an agreed meeting place in the Penbeagle area of town and handed over the cash.

But when the seller took the money to the bank, he was told all of the notes were counterfeit. It is believed the bike, a black Sur-Ron Ultra Bee, has since been offered for sale around St Ives and the buyer has removed his profile from Facebook.

Investigating officers are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information which may assist with enquiries. They would especially like to hear from anyone who may have been offered the bike for sale.

Information can be reported via the Devon and Cornwall Police website or by calling 101, quoting crime reference 50260019206.

Alternatively, contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Members of the public are asked to be on their guard when selling items for cash from individuals they do not know. Advice on how to check if banknotes are genuine can be found on the Bank of England website.