A SCAM mail-out, claiming to guarantee weight loss, has been sent to thousands of women in a bid to make them more aware of fraudsters.

Thousands of female householders across the country have received details of 'Fat-Off' capsules which claim to guarantee weight loss of 20lb a week.

But the mailing also makes clear it has been sent by the Office of Fair Trading as part of Scam Awareness month.

Research has found people in Britain lose an estimated £20m a year on 'miracle' health and slimming scams.

Mick Haley, director of consumer protection at the Office of Fair Trading, said: "Unfortunately, victims are more likely to lose money than weight."

If you suspect a scam, call Consumer Direct on 08454 040506 or visit consumerdirect.gov.uk