North Ayrshire Council is warning people to be vigilant after a resident was targeted by fraudsters.

The authority issued a joint statement with East Ayrshire Council alerting residents to a scammer claiming to be from their legal department.

The councils warned: “We have been made aware that a local resident recently received a phone call from someone claiming to be from the council’s legal team.

“The caller advised the resident that they were entitled to a large sum of compensation but that this would only be paid to them on receipt of a £400 upfront fee.

“Please be vigilant and if you receive a phone call like this, or similar, do not divulge any bank details or other personal information.

“If in doubt, check it out.”

Contact North Ayrshire Council on 01294 310000.