Carlisle City Council is warning residents of scam emails being sent around with fraudsters claiming to be from the authority.

The emails reference an "overpayment city council return" and a link to "refund by direct debit".

A spokesperson for the council said: “We are aware that some scam emails have been sent to some Carlisle residents from someone claiming to be from the ‘Council Tax & Payroll Service’.

"The sender’s email address also references the city council."

They added: “These emails have not been sent by Carlisle City Council.

“Do not open the email, but if you do, do not click on any links and do not respond or provide any information.”

* If you have any concerns or would like to check the validity of any email referencing Carlisle City Council, please contact their customer services team on 01228 817200.