Surprised shoppers were handed free money in Staines - but some cynical customers turned the notes down fearing it was too good to be true.

Bosses at Two Rivers Shopping Centre decided to give shoppers a new year’s boost by dividing £500 between 25 random people.

But organisers were stunned when shoppers refused the £20 gift - with one woman saying she “wasn’t falling for that one”.

Organisers managed to spread some cheer in the shopping centre as the cash disappeared within an hour.

Buki James, who lives in London but works in Staines picked up £20 in cash after her two colleagues walked past.

She said: “There has to be catch, in fact I am still waiting for it.

“Who doesn’t want free money in these times. I am probably just going to spend it on lunch.”

Mum-of-two Emma Quinn, from Chertsey, orginally turned the cash down but was chased by centre manager Charlotte Fletcher.

Mrs Quinn, who was out shopping with her three-year-old son Max and six-month-old baby Brandon, said: “I thought to myself there has to be catch.”

“It was a bit of a shock but I am sure I’ll put the cash to good use.”

Pensioner Yvonne Crisp, of Egham, said: “I thought maybe I would have to buy something and that there was a catch. I am not used to winning anything and am not usually a very lucky person. I will probably just keep the money in my purse.”

Ms Fletcher said: “Giving away the money gives everyone a really good feeling and it was nice to be able to put a smile on people’s faces in this cold weather.”