LAST minute skiers are urged to be wary of a holiday scam.

Campaigners at Action Fraud have warned of the threat posed by conmen targeting those who book late skiing holidays.

In 2017, victims nationally lost £200,000 to the fraudsters.

The scammers sell bogus ski chalet holidays to unsuspecting victims to pay large deposits for a property.

Once the payment is made, victims don't hear from the 'property agent' again.

In some instances, victims will turn up in the mountains to find their chosen chalet does not exist or is being used by other holidaymakers.

Pauline Smith, the head of Action Fraud, said: “We have seen a rise in the number of ski chalet fraud reports made over the past two years and the impact of falling victim to this type of fraud can be far greater than the financial loss.

"People can end up missing out on a well-deserved break and left with feelings of distrust which may stop them from booking online in the future.

"We hope that by raising awareness, people will feel better able to protect themselves

“We recommend that you are thorough when researching a last minute holiday and that you book directly with an airline or hotel, or through a reputable agent."