Mystery man hands out £50 notes to Tiverton shoppers Published duration 29 December 2011

image caption Tesco said it sounded like a "lovely gesture" but it could not confirm the story

Shoppers in a Devon supermarket received an early Christmas present when a mystery man handed them envelopes containing £50 notes.

The cash was distributed last week at the Tesco supermarket in Blundell's Road, Tiverton.

A printed message inside the envelopes said the man had more money than he needed and he wanted to share it.

Two "overwhelmed" beneficiaries were pensioners from the nearby village of Sampford Peverell.

Mike Aspray, Sampford Peverell parish clerk, said he was told a "youngish" man approached the elderly couple, wished them the compliments of the season, put the envelope in their shopping basket and walked away.

'No catch'

"The couple were obviously intent on shopping, as most people are at that time of year, and thought no more of it until they got to the checkout and wondered if they should throw the envelope out," he said.

"But they did actually open it, saw what it was inside and thought they ought to be able to thank the person who gave it to them."

Mr Aspray said he does not know how many envelopes were given out in the supermarket.

The message with the cash said: "Happy Christmas. I have recently been fortunate enough to have come into quite a lot of money - more than I need for myself and my family.

"So I thought that I would share some of it with other people - the £50 enclosed is for you.

"I hope this enables you to have a little extra cheer this Christmas.

"You do not have to do anything other than spend the money - and it is real, there is no trick, no hidden cameras or catch. Just have a happy Christmas."