HOUSEHOLDS in East Lancashire have been warned over a leaflet asking for donations for Eastern European charity shops.

The flyers delivered to Blackburn homes appeal for unwanted items to be left in plastic bags outside homes for collection.

But the company behind the scheme is not a charity - and instead of going to people in Eastern Europe the items are being sold for profit.

The leaflet originates from a company called LDK Ltd, which Lancashire County Council said has been criticised by the Advertising Standards Authority for incorrectly implying it is a charitable group.

It also refers to a charity called HKL that the Charities Commission confirmed is unregistered.

Retired headteacher, Hilda Neild, of Ottershaw Gardens, in Blackburn, received a leaflet. She said: "I'm always willing to help where I can but this appears to be a firm collecting clothes and selling them. People should be aware."

Blackburn with Darwen Council trading standards said LDK Ltd was dissolved in January.

Christopher Allen, head of trading standards, said: "We would urge local residents to think very carefully before making a donation to organisations who distribute leaflets.

"There are many reputable good causes, such as charity shops, who would be more than happy to receive unwanted clothing and by donating to these shops you can be sure the money is properly distributed."

A spokesman for the Charities Commission said: "There have been lots of companies that have put out leaflets like. They give the impression they're for charity and sometimes are, but some are not."