TEXT messages claiming to be from East Lothian Council about an outstanding parking fine have been labelled “a scam”.

The local authority took to social media to highlight the scam to people.

A spokesperson for the council said: “We’ve heard from some residents they have received text messages claiming to be from the council advising them they have an outstanding parking fine to pay.

“This is a scam – do not respond or click on any links.

“We do not contact people by text message and any legitimate contact on parking fines would be by letter to the car's registered owner.”