A RETIRED researcher was shocked to receive a letter saying he had won just short of a million Euros.

Dr Peter Grey soon realised it was a scam because the letter requested his bank details and he wants to warn other householders about the con.

The letter issued by ‘Interlotto Commission’ and addressed to ‘G Grey’ read: “Due to false practices, we ask that you keep your award information strictly from public notice.”

Dr Grey, who immediately contacted the Trading Standards Institute said: “The letter purports to my name winning €935,457 and I thought straight away this clearly has to be a scam.

“I read the letter and it told me to keep it strictly private, I knew it wasn’t legitimate.

“Absolutely no way was I going to send these people my bank details.

Claiming to be issued from a Spanish lottery sweepstake company it is believed the letter, which asked for personal details such as his occupation, was sent from a group based in West Africa.

“Instead I Googled the name of the company which revealed they were a scam group operating from Nigeria,” added Dr Grey, who lives with his wife in Bownham Park, Rodborough Common.

“I wanted to throw it away but I think letters like these need to be flagged up.

“People need to be made aware — others may be gullible and give their bank details.

“It wouldn’t be right for people to be relieved of their hard earned cash.”