$320,000-a-year crime wave.

They say cheque forging accounts for 10 percent of major crimes on the Island.

And alarm has grown at a rise in the number of forgeries this year.

It is believed drug users -- hoping to feed their craving -- are increasingly behind the crimes.

"There has been a modest increase, and we are concerned,'' said crime prevention officer Det. Con. Chris Willcox yesterday.

Police have appealed for people, particularly traders, to beware the crime.

Special "check those cheques'' stickers have been produced, sponsored by the Bank of Bermuda, the Bank of Butterfield, and Bermuda Commercial Bank.

They inform traders they are not legally bound to accept a cheque.

And they include golden rules -- such as insisting customers provide photographic identification.

"This is particularly important, and we strongly advise people to do this,'' said Det. Con. Willcox.

"It's concerning that such identification is so often not asked for.'' Traders are also urged to check for alterations, and insist cheques are endorsed in front of them.

Anyone wanting a free sticker, which should be attached by a counter as a reminder, can get one from the Police.

Det. Con. Willcox said the percentage of forgeries, compared to other major crimes, had remained around the same over the last few years.

But with an overall increase in crime, it meant the number had gone up, he added.

In 1991 people were fined a total of $8,050 for forging or uttering cheques.

Figures for last year have not yet been compiled.

As well as drug users, Police were concerned at the number of juveniles involved in forgeries, said Det. Con. Willcox.

"Juveniles steal from their parents or guardians, who are naturally reluctant to press charges. It does cause problems.'' Chief Inspector Victor Richmond said in 1991 there were 1,206 offences of obtaining goods by false pretences.

The value of goods amounted to $319,409.80. Figures for 1992 are likely to show a slight increase.