Officers fear the company - The Rugby World Cup 2003 (UK) Ltd - has been selling tickets, flights and accommodation for the event which do not exist.

More than 100 rugby fans have paid between �390 and �10,500 for trips but the company, based in Wokingham, Berkshire, has allegedly failed to provide any match or air tickets to customers.

The company has since been served with a winding up order.

Fraud squad officers say there could be many more people from the UK, Ireland and Australia who have purchased trips from the firm who have yet to come forward.

This trip for most people represents a once-in-a-lifetime event for which they have been saving for many years. Detective Constable Steve Ball

The company has been advertising in national newspapers and magazines for the sale of flights, accommodation and match tickets for the event, which takes place this October and November.

It has claimed to be working in conjunction with the International Rugby Board (IRB).

However, Thames Valley Police said the IRB had never heard of the firm and it was not licensed to sell tickets for the event.

Detective Constable Steve Ball said: "This trip for most people represents a once-in-a-lifetime event for which they have been saving for many years.

'Severe disappointment'

"The Rugby World Cup 2003 (UK) Ltd has allegedly not provided any match or air travel tickets to any of its customers.

"This has already caused severe disappointment to the rugby fans who have paid money for tickets that have not been provided."

Police began investigating the firm in July after being contacted by a member of the public.

The firm was served with a compulsory winding-up order on 30 July and is now in the hands of the Official Receiver.

A woman in her 30s has been arrested and bailed on suspicion of obtaining money transfers by deception.