Alert over collection scam (From Western Telegraph)

Alert over collection scam

2:34pm Tuesday 18th September 2007 in

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North Pembrokeshire householders are being warned that a collection for Chernobyl children may not be as charitable as it seems.

Fishguard resident Rayner Saunders and her neighbours became concerned when leaflets asking for clothing donations were posted through their letterboxes last week.

The flyers appealed for householders to put unwanted clothes and shoes into plastic bags for doorstep collections.

While the bold headline stated: "Join us to help the Ukrainian people who remain affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster', the small print at the bottom indicates that this is a commercial company.

Mrs Saunders said: "I think it's disgusting that these people are using the people of the Ukraine to make money."

Her neighbours threw the leaflets away after Mrs Saunders pointed out that the company was not a charity.

She added: "They are cashing in on people who need help. It's a crafty deal and it's very wrong. People need to be made aware of this."

The North Pembroke-shire Link of the Chernobyl Children's Life Line charity have warned that the company distributing the leaflets is a commercial organisation, and stressed that it is not linked to them in any way.

A spokesman said: "We bring children from Belarus to Pembrokeshire for rest and recuperation.

"During the year we collect good quality second hand clothes which go back with the children and are shared with their families."

Anyone wishing to donate to this local charity, which helps the children of Chernobyl, can contact the chair or the secretary of the North Pembrokeshire Link, Byron and Carole Alabaster, on 01348 811325.

A charity concert featuring local musicians such as Lowri Evans, Lee Mason and Lilwen and Gwenda, will be held in aid of the north Pembrokeshire Life Line at Theatr Gwaun on October 6th, starting at 7.30pm.

Tickets are available from local businesses or call 01348 873733.