SCAMMERS claiming to be from a cancer screening programme are targeting women in Dorset.

They are contacting women by text and asking them to provide personal details after telling them they are from the cervical screening programme.

A warning has been issued by staff from the Stour Surgery in Christchurch who said: "We have been made aware of a possible cervical screening text messaging scam. Some women are being contacted by text message, claiming to be from the call and recall service to advise they are overdue for screening. The message then asks them to call a mobile number and provide personal details.

"These messages are not from the NHS cervical screening programme. If you would like to know when you are next due for cervical screening, please contact your GP surgery directly."