“LUCKY HUMBER" FRAUD

Evening Star, Issue 19519, 29 March 1927, Page 3

“LUCKY HUMBER" FRAUD

LONDON RESIDENTS HOAXED A “ lucky number ” hoax has been nractised upon large numbers of people in Hammersmith. Circulars were issued purporting to come from “ a firm of house furnishers,” stating that ten prizes of £IOO each would be isued to the holders of a certain number, the object being, it was Said, to advertise tho opening of a new branch of the business. Most of the circulars announced that “ Your number is 403.”

I On tho date nlloted for publication I of the 'esults of the draw an advertlse- ■ ment in a local newspaper announced that the winning number was 403, and I asked each “winner” to send in his j name and address with a postal order I for os “ as a safeguard against persons making bogus clams.” . A large number of people sent 5s 'each, but no reply and no £IOO was forthcoming. j In tho circular the author announced I that the draw would be under the supervision of “ that respected local M.P., Sir William Bull, who has kindly consented to so fair play.” Sir William declares that he had nothing to do with any such scheme, nor had he authorised anyone to use his name in connection with a draw. , City police officers visited the address (given in the circulars and took possession of a largo number of letters ’ sent in answers to the advertisement. They are now searching for a welldressed young man who inserted the advertisement.