POLICE are advising people who wish to donate money to the survivors of the tsunami disaster to be wary about whom they give their cash to.

The advice was issued after reports of bogus charity collectors operating across Gloucestershire.

Crime reduction officer PC Paul Francis said: "We have had reports of people using the tsunami disaster to take advantage of the public's goodwill and generosity.

"We would ask people to use common sense to ensure their money gets to the people who need it.

"The best way to do this is to send donations to official charities, such as OXFAM or the Tsunami Earthquake Appeal.

"If people wish to donate to smaller or independent appeals, they should check to ensure that their money will end up going to tsunami survivors - and not to line the pockets of unscrupulous individuals."