TRADING standards officials are warning charity minded residents who want to contribute to a clothing collection to make sure the items are going to the people they think they are.

There has been a raft of complaints from people living all over the borough who are concerned about leaflets they have received through their door.

A number of clothing collection companies are distributing flyers in Warrington but by careful reading, it is clear that they are actually selling on the goods to people in need.

One company has distributed flyers to homes across the borough in a bid to get residents to leave second-hand clothes on their doorsteps for people in developing countries.

The letter gives the impression that items will be collected for charity, when the collections are actually being made for commercial purposes and then being sold for profit.

Edwina Greenwood, principal trading standards officer at Warrington Borough Council, said: "We advise that if you are in doubt as to the authenticity of a company, individual or operation you can always contact trading standards on 442673. Alternatively, call the charity commission on 0870 333 0123."

Have you accidentally handed over your items to a business rather than a charity? If so, call Helen Cartwright on 434110 or at hcartwright@guardiangrp .co.uk