HOUSEHOLDERS are being urged to be wary of bogus charity bag collectors.
The police warning comes following an increasing number of reports of donated clothing being removed from doorsteps before it can be collected by charity street collectors.
An estimated £2 million worth of potential donations are being lost from around the country each year to bogus collectors, according to the Association of Charity Shops.
Organised groups have stepped up their efforts to steal donations given the rising prices paid for second hand clothes.
Residents are advised to check collectors for identification and to see that donation bags state the charity’s name and registered charity number.
Anyone with any concerns should contact their safer neighbourhood team or the Charity Commission helpline on 0870 333 0123.
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