Warning issued over fake refugee housing letters

The letters have been sent to streets where St George's flags are fixed to lampposts

A warning has been issued after fake letters were posted through letterboxes, claiming people would have to house refugees if they flew St George's flag.

The letter said that "patriotic" households displaying the country's flag will temporarily house refugees because "we know you would be proud to assist your country".

Gloucestershire Constabulary said it is looking into whether a crime had been committed and the council has warned people not to dial the phone number listed.

Reform councillor Alan Preest, from the Forest of Dean District Council, branded the letters "childish" and "silly".

The letter was aimed at houses and streets where flags were flying

The letter suggested that to thank residents for housing the refugees, they would receive a mug with a St George's flag on from King Charles.

To opt out, it told readers to dial a number beginning in 098, which are numbers ringfenced for premium rate sexual entertainment services by Ofcom.

Councillor Preest said he first heard about the letter during a council meeting on Thursday and that the letters are "wasting everybody's time".

"It is the vulnerable people that I'm concerned about," he added.

Reform councillor Alan Preest called the letters "childish" and "silly"

Tye Page, who lives in Lydney, was with his neighbour when she received a copy of the letter.

"She opened it up and started laughing," Mr Page said.

"I think it's just someone having a laugh. Personally, I don't think there's any sort of bad feelings."

Council leaders posted on social media to reassure people that the letters are not written by the authority and that they should be ignored.

Police said they have reviewed the letter and are carrying out enquiries to determine whether any offences have been committed.