PENSIONERS in the New Forest are being warned to be on their guard against a lottery scam that could hit them in the pocket.

Elderly residents are being targeted by smooth-talking conmen who ring up and claim they have landed a prize in a Canadian lottery.

The pensioners are told they will receive their winnings if they send cash to cover administration and processing fees - but no money ever arrives.

Tricksters are believed to have netted millions of pounds from victims across the country, including old folk in the Forest.

New Forest Community Safety Partnership has joined forces with the Office of Fair Trading and Help the Aged to warn residents and advise them on how to spot the scam.

A partnership spokesman said: "Victims are often asked for money up-front in order to release their prize.

"They are also asked for private and confidential information such as bank account and credit card details.

"Callers claim money will be sent to someone else unless payment for a processing fee is made straight away.

"The confidence tricksters sound very pleasant, but only to gain the trust of their victims."

Cllr Geoff Beck, the district council's Cabinet member for crime and disorder, said: "People should be suspicious

of any phone calls or unsolicited mail that promises cash prizes in return for up-front fees.

"These scams are too good to be true and we're urging anyone who is contacted to ignore them.

"It is vital we tackle the problem through continued co-operation and it remains a top priority for all involved in crime enforcement."

Anyone who has been targeted by the conmen, or fears an elderly relative has become a victim, should ring Help the Aged on 01255 473999.

Victims who wish to give evidence that could help stamp out the scam should ring the Office of Fair Trading on 020 7211 8111.