Letters are being received by a number of people in the area which appear to be from Spain but bear a West Yorkshire postmark and claim that the receiver has won a large amount of money.

Insp Richard Sullivan, of Pontefract and Knottingley Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "The letters are part of a scam and residents are advised not to reply or send any personal details especially information relating to bank accounts.

"I would advise members of the public receiving any such letter to treat it with suspicion. It is merely an attempt to get people to send money. If something sounds too good to be true, then chances are it probably is.

"No bona fide organisation will ask for money in advance of winnings being released."

Anyone who receives the letter is asked to keep it and contact Wakefield District Police on 0845 6060606.

This week is National Identity Fraud Protection Week which is raising awareness of identity theft and fraud and how to prevent people becoming victims.