YOUNG con artists have been knocking on elderly people's homes in Bewdley claiming to be collecting cash for sponsored events at the town's high school.

There were at least two incidents over the Christmas holiday, provoking complaints which have been logged with Bewdley High School.

Teenagers have been claiming they were collecting for sponsored swims and walks. A spokeswoman said the school was "appalled" by the situation after one of the complainants parted with £5.

"We know nothing about any sponsored events," she added. "We wouldn't endorse any of our pupils going round collecting money in this way."

She said pupils would be warned about such behaviour in assembly, adding: "We're appalled by what's been going on and we want to warn people not to give money to these youngsters."