CALLOUS thieves posing as charity workers in Huddersfield have been preying on people’s goodwill to deprive good causes of donations.

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) has issued a warning after a spate of incidents of charity bags full of clothes and other items being stolen from outside properties.

Bogus callers have also been knocking on people’s doors claiming to be collectors for the BHF.

Julie Clegg, BHF shops area manager for Huddersfield, said: “These collectors are working for commercial gain, with none of the proceeds going to charity.

“All profits raised from goods donated to the BHF shops go directly to fighting heart disease.

“Household appeals are a vital source of income for our BHF shops.

“Stealing bags that have been left out for our charity is akin to robbing people with heart conditions of a better quality of life.”

Genuine BHF collectors carry identifcation cards and their vans carry the charity’s logo.

Ms Clegg added: “We would urge all householders to be aware of suspicious activity to ensure that their donations reach their intended recipient. They should report any suspicious activity immediately to the police.”