Police say deceitful teenagers have been going door-to-door in the Lepton and Grange Moor areas asking for fictional sponsorship money.

Several people have already handed over cash for a school-organised fun run or similar event already but some people had suspicions and when questioned, the teens left empty-handed.

One resident spoke to staff at the unnamed school, and it transpired there was no fun run and those involved were simply pocketing the money given to them by well-meaning donors.

This is currently being investigated.

Police say it’s great if people want to raise money for charity through sponsorship - but going door-to-door to ask for donations requires a license.

A West Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said: “As a nation we love to help charities and we’re generally quick to hand over cash but please make some enquiries of your own before putting your hand in your pocket.

“For example, Which charity? Can I pledge an amount and pay you when the event has happened? Who has organised this? When and where is it taking place?

“It’s sad that some people exploit our generous nature for their own gain and thankfully they are few and far between but please be wary, especially of ‘dodgy-looking’ homemade sponsor forms.”