London, Dec 29 (IANS) A mystery man in Britain, who said he came across “quite a lot of money”, gave away 50-pound notes to shoppers as a Christmas gift.

The man who distributed the envelopes at the Tesco store in Sampford Peverell, Devon, also enclosed a letter that said: “Happy Christmas. I have recently been fortunate enough to have come into quite a lot of money - more than I need for myself and my family. So I thought that I would share some of it with other people - the 50 pounds enclosed is for you.”

Many people thought the man was advertising for a store promotion, said the Daily Mail.

The man slipped the letters into shopping trolleys and baskets, and wished customers Merry Christmas.

“I hope this enables you to have a little extra cheer this Christmas. You do not have to do anything other than spend the money - and it is real, there is no trick, no hidden cameras or catch. Just have a happy Christmas,” the letter said.

One man took the cash to the bank, where it was confirmed that it was a genuine currency note.