CONMEN posing as Magpas fundraisers are putting lives in danger, the emergency medical charity has claimed.

Several members of the public alerted the St Ives-based charity after two individuals were asking for on the spot donations by going door to door and bucket shaking in supermarkets.

The bogus collections have been recently reported in Cambridge, Stevenage and Ipswich. Cambridgeshire police and Trading Standards have been notified.

Debbie Florence, fundraising manager, said: “We would like to make it clear to all members of the public that these individuals are not connected with our charity and have not been in contact with us regarding these donations.

“This is particularly sad because it could put lives in danger. The public know that Magpas rely solely on the generosity of donations and if people feel they are supporting us by making donations to these hoaxers, the future of Magpas could be at risk.”

The charity is urging members of the public to check fundraisers’ identification badges before donating.

INFORMATION: If you would like to make a donation to Magpas, call 0300 321 4971 or visit www.magpas.org.uk