MAIL scammers have been targeting North Ayrshire residents – with 20 local people falling victim to the fraudsters in recent weeks.

They include a West Kilbride resident, who was lucky enough to have a Postal Order worth £90 returned to them.

North Ayrshire’s Trading Standards team this week urged people to be wary of scam artists.

A spokesman confirmed that, as well as the West Kilbride case, 19 other locals in the Three Towns, Kilwinning, Largs, Irvine and the Garnock Valley had provided their details to suspected fraudsters operating mail scams.

Many con artists continue to choose to target people via post by telling them that they have won large sums of money in fake lottery or prize scams.

These scams appear convincing and their unsuspecting victims – who are often vulnerable – are led to believe that they are line to receive a big pay out.

However, those behind the scam usually insist their victims send them money before issuing their prize – which is often either non-existent or very little.

Councillor Marie Burns, Cabinet Member for Economy and Employment, said: “I would urge residents to be wary of responding to any unsolicited mail offers they receive.

Criminals will often attempt to use clever and convincing mail scams to line their own pockets by encouraging residents to part with their money.

It might sound simple but if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

”Anyone who believes that either they, or a family member, are receiving scam mail can report the issue to Royal Mail.

"Alternatively, examples of mail believed to be from fraudsters can be sent to FREEPOST SCAM MAIL, along with a covering letter."