POTENTIALLY vulnerable Lancashire residents are being targeted by a growing number of "psychic scams," trading standards officials have warned.

This week has seen a spate of leaflets hit Lancashire doormats which imply that by simply sending off a profile of themselves, people stand a chance of receiving up to £75,000.

The leaflets have a religious element to them and try to establish a connection with the recipient.

This is heightened by the householder's full name and address appearing at the top of the letter to make it appear that they alone are being contacted.

And while they offer an end to financial headaches experts say they could well turn out to be the start of monetary misery.

The most recent documents are supposedly from Karina Natalia, who claims to be a psychic healer and "woman with X-ray eyes".

They ask for no money to be sent but say that if you return your personal details prayers will be offered on your behalf.

Trading Standards say that if somebody does reply to these leaflets they are put on what is known as a "mugs list", which means they are repeatedly targeted by unscrupulous companies.

Therefore, officials are urging people to see through the scams.

Lancashire County Council (LCC) chief trading standards officer Jim Potts said: "Psychic scams are quite a phenomenon.

"They play on people's superstitions, fears or worries and say that they have had an insight into their lives.

"They use frightening phrases to target people. Filling in one of these profiles is the worst thing you can do.

"The people who are sending these out want people to part with their money by fair means or foul.

"Anyone who does respond will be targeted for further misleading offers and junk mail by the fraudsters.

"We have known people who have lost thousands through these scams."

If you have one of these leaflets you can send it to Lancashire County Council, Trading Standards Service, 58-60 Guild Hall Street, Preston, PR1 3NN.

If you have a query or are worried that you have been targeted you can contact LCC on 0845 404 0506.