Christmas is the season of goodwill, but there are those who will take advantage of people's kindness.
Hounslow police borough commander is warning residents of bogus charity collectors operating in the Feltham area.
Reports given to police suggest people have been knocking on doors claiming to collect for organisations including the Hayes Rugby or Boxing club as well as Help the Aged.
The advice comes following at least two burglaries last week on Thursday (November 24) in Durham Road, Feltham.
During one burglary a quantity of cash was stolen while during another the suspect was disturbed by the occupier and fled.
Officers were informed that prior to both incidents male charity collectors with a clipboard and collection tin had been knocking on doors.
In one incident suspects broke into a house prior to reports of males collecting for Hayes Rugby and Boxing Club as well as Help the Aged were reported in the area.
During another burglary a resident told police a male charity collector knocked at his door at around 8pm.
The man was very polite and said he was collecting for Help the Aged, however he looked too young for the role and raised alarm bells with the resident, according to the report.
He is described as white male, clean shaven, slight accent and aged late teens to early 20s.
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Information gathered by police has suggested prior to the burglary people had been door knocking posing to collect for charity.
The door to door enquiries also revealed neighbours corroborated the description of the man and his actions.
A message from chief superintendent, Raj Kohli, urges residents to verify the identification and confirm local police have been informed of the collections taking place.
People with doubts should not hand any money over and must report the incident to police.
Mr Kohli said: "The generous people of Hounslow are even more generous in the run up to Christmas.
"Very occasionally London gets bogus charity collectors knocking on doors.
"Always check their photo ID and confirm they have told the local police.
"If you are not satisfied then don't give them money and email/call your local police team."
Hounslow police sent out a warning via Twitter which said: "Be aware of charity callers especially those collecting for Hayes Rugby or Boxing.
"Please verify id and if believed suspicious call 101 or in an emergency 999."
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