ROGUE collectors could be preying on the kindness of Bolton's pub-goers, a Bolton councillor has warned.

Cllr Paul Perry believes bogus charity workers are operating in Bolton town centre - especially in busy pubs.

The Tonge Ward councillor, a well-known local figure who regularly collects for the Salvation Army, says fake collectors who have made an unwelcome return to the town are again ruining the trust that bona fide charities have built up.

The BEN reported on a spate of bogus collections in Bolton in between 1997 and 1998.

Cllr Perry said: "Mr fear is that these collectors were driven underground a couple of years ago but have now returned. On a good night, a collector could make over £100."

Cllr Perry's suspicions rose after he encountered a collector in the Duke of York in Newport Street, Bolton, at 9.45pm last Wednesday.

When confronted, the collector said she worked for a charity collecting for needy children - but did not carry a permit.

Cllr Perry said: "Someone is on to a good thing. I've checked with Bolton Council's licensing department but they didn't know anything about it."

Guard

The Charity Commissioner has also confirmed no charity in the name that the woman gave to Cllr Perry is registered.

Cllr Perry wants to warn the town's revellers to be on their guard when someone calls into nightspot collecting for "charity".

Bona fide collectors will carry a permit from Bolton Council allowing them to ask for money.

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