SHOPKEEPERS in Whalley Range have asked police to take action to deal with begging in the area.

Resident and former councillor Hussain Akhtar, who chairs an action group of shopkeepers on Whalley Range Bazaar, said that beggars had been approaching people, especially women, who were shopping in the area and asking them for money.

He also said that shopkeepers were concerned because some beggars were even going into shops on occasion.

Mr Akhtar said: “I’m worried because begging is increasing on Whalley Range. There has been an increase in the numbers of beggars in the area.

“I’ve spoken to the police inspector about it. Beggars are even going into the shops and we’re worried people may take money from the tills.”

Mr Akhtar was concerned that the problem would get worse during Ramadhan, as more people would be out shopping as they prepared for upcoming Eid celebrations.

Part of the Muslim religion dictates that money should be donated to charity during the holy month, and Mr Akhtar feared that beggars would target people shopping in the Whalley Range area and pressure them to give money.

Last week police visited shopkeepers in the area to assess the extent of the problem.

A police spokesman said, “Officers have been made aware of the complaints and will be speaking to local shopkeepers to discuss that matter.”