A toy €100 note is being treated as counterfeit currency after it was used to buy a sandwich in Northern Ireland.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland said the note - which carries an ELC logo - was accepted by a cashier at a fast food outlet in Newry, Co Down.

Officers were called to investigate because the shop owner was left out of pocket.

Writing on their Newry and Mourne Facebook page, the PSNI said: "Yep you are right you know, it's a pretend 100 euro note from a leading kiddies toy store.

"So why do we have it in an evidence bag I hear you query? Well it's in an evidence bag because it's evidence. Evidence of the offence of tendering counterfeit currency.

"I know, I know a kids play note counterfeit currency?? Well believe it or not this was actually accepted as payment recently in business premises in Newry.

Many businesses in Newry accept cash transactions in both sterling and euro due to its proximity to the border.

Police have since issued fresh advice for businesses to thoroughly check all notes.

The PSNI added: "Isn't it as well the # is pretty strong against the euro?"