FAKE contract offers are being made to ice hockey players around the world by someone impersonating Swindon Wildcats head coach Ryan Aldridge.

Ice Hockey UK, the national governing body, is warning players about the scam.

In a statement, it said: "This person has been contacting players across the world, acting as Ryan, and then claiming they could sign for the Wildcats.

"Email conversations have even got as far as discussing pay, terms and conditions of a contract.

"They have also set up a bank account and have been asking for money off these people, claiming it is needed to process their work permit.

"This is a scam and has nothing to do with Ryan Aldridge or the Swindon Wildcats.

"The matter has been reported to the police and a crime reference number set up."

The perpetrator is using this e-mail address: office.swindonwildcatsihc@gmail.com

If anyone has been contacted by this person, they should contact: general.secretary@icehockeyuk.co.uk