North-East News
Charity warns of bogus collectors
3:33pm Wednesday 17th March 2010
A LIFESAVING charity is warning locals that it has heard reports of bogus collectors in the Thirsk and Sowerby area.
The Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) fears kind hearted donators may be fooled into thinking they are supporting the charity.
The suspected bogus collectors have knocked on doors asking for funds which is a system the YAA does not use.
The YAA has stressed that its staff and volunteers carry ID badges which can be verified with its main office.
Paul Gowland, director of fundraising for the service, said: "The charity would like to clarify that they have never used this tactic to fundraise.
"These people are not official YAA representatives and we strongly advise residents not to give out any of their personal details nor hand over any cash."
Anyone who is approached by someone claiming to be from the Yorkshire Air Ambulance should contact the charity office on 01422-237900.