People in Watford have been warned of collectors claiming to be from the Probation Service raising cash for the homeless.

The collectors are bogus and if anyone is approached for money in this matter they should refuse and inform the police according to Hertfordshire Probation Trust.

A representative said: "We are a publically owned service and funded by the Ministry of Justice. "We do not employ anyone to raise money for the homeless in this way, or any other group.

"We work hard to support the rehabilitation of the offenders we manage and who are serving Community Sentences or have been released from prison on a licence.

"Our advice for local residents if they are asked to donate money by anyone claiming to work for the Probation Service, is simply not to give any money. If they have concerns they should report the matter to their local neighbourhood policing team."