THE PUBLIC are being warned over an increase in scams advertising friendly local events on social media.

Food Festivals, Artisan Markets and local fayres are becoming very popular across the region with local traders keen to be involved.

Trading Standards are now warning everyone considering taking up this or any similar offers to be extremely careful and always check with the venue advertised before parting with any hard earned cash if they’re not familiar with who is advertising it.

They’ve recently been made aware of a Facebook account using the name Elvis Kosegi, but they could also be using other names that they’re not aware of offering stalls at a bogus summer fayre in Brynteg Memorial Centre for £40.

After being called out by one suspicious user it appears the account has now been deleted.

Roger Mapleson, Trading Standards and Licensing Lead at Wrexham Council said: “Whilst this scam isn’t very sophisticated £40 is a lot for local or regional traders to lose and the scammer could pockets hundreds if not thousands of pounds by advertising on local Facebook groups or other social media.

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“Please remain cautious before you part with your money and check that the event actually exists and the seller is legitimate.

"A quick email or phone call to the venue itself is a good way to check if it’s taking place and if so, who’s organising it.”

If you think you may have been the victim of a scam, you should report this to Action Fraud via their website or by calling 0300 123 2040.