police

Police in Edinburgh are issuing a warning to the public to remain vigilant for a fraudulent charity collector.

On Wednesday 6th November, a man attended at the Tesco store in Meadowplace Road and claimed to be collecting donations for the Sara’s Hope Foundation.

However, staff became suspicious when the male could not provide suitable identification. He left the area before they could challenge him further.

Enquiry has revealed the same individual may also have attempted to collect money at supermarkets in the North East of England and in Manchester in recent months and police are keen to ensure people do fall victim to this scam.

PC Colin Cursiter said: “Fortunately the member of staff at Tesco was vigilant and the suspect was unable to falsely collect money from shoppers at the store.

“Officers are now trying to trace this male and anyone with information that can assist with our enquiries is asked to come forward.

“Members of the public are reminded to check the identification of any charity collectors before donating money.

“If you are not entirely satisfied with their authenticity, or the authenticity of the charity they claim to represent, then do not hand over any money and report the individual to police.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.