Police have warned members of lift share groups not to risk their safety by getting into a car with a stranger.

Thousands of people are members of 'cash for lifts' groups on Facebook across Dorset.

An officer from Dorset Police said: "We are aware of several Facebook groups which have been created in order to share lifts.

"When getting into a vehicle with an unlicensed and un-vetted stranger, passengers have no knowledge of their background and risk their own personal safety."

Those who might be considering using a lift share group are urged to "consider an alternative journey home" by contacting a friend or relative for a lift, catching a bus or using a licensed taxi.

Anyone who offers a lift in exchange for money should be insured to do so, the spokesperson said.