A CHARITY is warning people in Blackwood to be vigilant after bags left out for collection were stolen.

The British Heart Foundation said it received reports of bogus collectors asking residents to donate clothing or textiles, or taking bags left for the charity to collect.

The collectors are working for commercial gain, it said, with none of the proceeds from the collections going to charity.

Spokesperson Terry Hughes said household appeals are a vital source of income for the BHF.

"Stealing bags that have been left out for charity is akin to robbing people with heart conditions of a better quality of life," he said.

Collectors from the BHF can be identified by the foundation’s logo on their van, while operatives carry ID cards that they should produce when asked.

Collections can also be checked with your local charity shop.

The charity urged householders to be aware of suspicious activity to make sure their donations reach the intended recipient.

Any suspicious activity should be reported to the police,it added.

Meanwhile BHF shops are seeking donations of good quality clothing, handbags, shoes, accessories, DVDs, CDs, books, toys and other items.

For more information on the charity’s shops call 0844 4125200 or visit http://bhf.org.uk/shops.