SPA folk are being warned to be on their guard for bogus charity collectors who are taking advantage of their generosity.

Authentic collectors are urging residents to be on the lookout after an increase in fake callers in the area.

Notes are being dropped through letterboxes throughout Droitwich asking for old and spare clothes to be put into plastic bags and left on the doorstep for collection.

The notes do not say they are from a charity but are worded and designed to appear that way, saying clothes will be sent to the Third World. However, such a service is in fact run as a business which makes money from rag merchants who pay for the clothes.

Paul Gissing, from The Larches, who collects bags on behalf of Acorns Children's Hospice, said: "I have seen people collect the bags. They make money from clothes that people think they have given to charity.

"The problem is not just residents being deceived but real charities suffering because of it. The collection gangs have also started taking our bags too. It's a disgrace and is taking advantage of true generosity."

Droitwich Spa police said the dishonest practice is not illegal as long as they do not say they are a charity. However, they said that taking other charity bags is illegal and would be looked into.

Retail manager for Acorn's Children's Hospice, Dennis Hyde, added: "There are bogus collectors all over the Midlands. The problem is rife and it's getting worse.

"The hospice is being deprived of revenue that means the charity and the children it helps will suffer."

People who receive collection notes should check for a registered charity number before donating.

Worcestershire Trading Standards has agreed to look in to the problem if it can get enough evidence on the matter.