Bogus collection van drivers have been spotted roaming the streets of the Black Country stealing donation bags intended for charity.

Bosses at the Sedgley-based Beacon Centre for the Blind today revealed collections were down between 50 and 75 per cent when rogue vans were reported in Wolverhampton.

Retail manager Tracey Ford said 2,000 bags were distributed across the city every week in the hope people would donate items to stock its seven charity shops across the region – and said the suspected thefts were potentially costing the charity thousands in lost income.

They have been tipped off by members of the public and police are investigating.

She said anyone collecting bags for the Beacon centre would carry an ID badge.

Call 01902 880111 with any information.