POTTERS Bar residents have been warned to be wary of scams involving companies asking for donations to bogus children's charities.

Leaflets dropped by a “charity” called Children's Support Society (CSS) have asked for donations of “unwanted clean re-useable” clothing, bedding, curtains, shoes, toys, handbags and belts".

The leaflet claims the company is dedicated to providing the “shelter, food, clothing, education and healthcare that are essential to a child's wellbeing”.

But Hertfordshire Trading Standards has discovered that the charity number given is registered to a charity which has nothing to do with CSS.

Keith Emsall, Hertfordshire County Council's executive member for community safety, said bogus companies can make hundreds of pounds from the donations.

He said: “This may appear to be a minor crime, but these types of collections can be sold for between £600 and £800 per tonne.

“The real victims are the people who genuine charities look to help.”

If you are expecting a collection from CSS contact Consumer Direct on 08353 040 506.