FIRMS which collect donations to help people in the Third World are really making a profit out of unwitting householders, Trading Standards chiefs have warned.

Now the consumer champions are warning people about donating unwanted clothing to the collection companies responsible.

Leaflets from a firm called Orellana Ltd were delivered to homes in the Baxenden area on Tuesday morning asking for donations of clothing, blankets, sheets, shoes, handbags, curtains, towels, cosmetics, toiletries and perfumes.

Lancashire County Council's Trading Standards Service said collections like these may look like they are for a charitable cause, but are actually by commercial operators who make money from selling on the unwanted goods.

The leaflet states that the company, which according to Companies House is based in London, "provides people in Third World countries with clothes for their families they can afford". It goes on to say that it provides jobs for people in Third World countries sorting the clothes for distribution.

But Steve Brimble, principal officer for the county council's Trading Standards, said: "We are aware that the majority of door-to-door collections are not now made by genuine registered charities, but by businesses who simply sell the goods for profit. If consumers know this, they might prefer to pass the goods on themselves directly to their local registered charity shop on the high street.

"Whilst there are reputable charities that collect clothes and directly benefit good causes, it's always a good idea to check the credentials."

Baxenden resident Alan Moreton, 43, of Shap Close, Baxenden, who had one of the leaflets posted through his door, said: "I think it is a disgrace what these people are trying to do."

Anyone wishing to check can telephone the Charity Commission on 0845 300 0218 or search their website at www.charity-commission.gov.uk.