Pub landlords and off-licence owners have been alerted that scammers are seeking to con them out of cash.

The warning has been issued by Hyndburn Council.

Its licensing department has been made aware of a scam that appears to be aimed at licensed premises.

Alcohol licence holders have been contacted by fraudsters and advised their licence has expired and requires renewal.

A fee has been requested by the fraudsters with the threat the licence will expire if it isn’t paid.

So far the authority's officers have not heard that any licence holders locally have been targeted but they are urging licensees to be cautious if they receive calls requiring immediate payment.

Cllr Melissa Fisher, Hyndburn Council's licensing boss said: "Whilst there are no reports of this happening in Hyndburn, alcohol licence holders should still remain vigilant.

"Licensing officers do sometimes call to take late payments, however, there would be no threats that the licence will expire.

"If in doubt put the phone down and call the council on 01254 388111.”