FRAUDSTERS are said to have been targeting shops and pubs with a card machine scam.

Police have issued a warning to businesses following a spate of attempted frauds in Barrow and Dalton.

Two men, described as being of Asian or mixed race appearance, are being hunted by police following the incidents.

Officers said Batty’s Off Licence in Crellin Street and Batty’s Discount Drinks in Brighton Street, Barrow, as well as Open All Hours in Ulverston Road, Dalton were targeted – between about 8.50pm and 9.10pm on Tuesday.

During what is suspected to be attempted frauds, the suspects took goods to the counter and attempted to pay by card.This was declined.

Businesses said the men were trying to get cashback from retailers and were successful in taking £100 from a shop.

Jacqui Chisman, landlady of the Golden Ball, said her pub was one of the places the two men targeted.

She said: “They came in and I knew straight away they were not local.

“I couldn’t tell what their accents were but they sounded like a put-on Jamaican voice.

“They tried to get £100 from us in cashback and I said no because our limit is £40.

“I took the card machine away from them.

“Luckily I could tell they were trying to do something.

“Unfortunately, I heard some other shops had been targeted as well and not all their staff would have been aware what was going on.”

She issued a warning to other businesses.

“People need to be on the look out for these people and be wary,” she said. “If they manage to go around a get £100 here and there they could end up with thousands."

Police said their investigations were continuing and appealed to the public for information.

Inspector Jim Bailey said: “We would ask anyone with information about these incidents to come forward and contact us. We would also urge shop staff to be vigilant to any suspicious signs when people come to pay for goods.

“This could include their general demeanour, the manner in which they act – and shops can protect themselves, for instance by checking all currency is not counterfeit. We work hard to protect the retail community and anyone who wishes further advice can contact officers.”

Police said other advice to shop staff included only using the keypad for PIN entry.

A spokesman said the men were in their early to mid 20s and spoke with southern accents.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101.