Pub bans kids' charity collectors

1:59pm Thursday 21st February 2008

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PUB landlords Richard and Phil Snell have taken a stand against bogus charity collectors by banning them from their premises.

The brothers, who run The Kings Arms in Calne, have stopped collectors who claim to be from the children's charity, Bluebell Children's Trust, from fundraising in their pub.

People claiming they are from Bluebell, a registered charity, travel around Wiltshire pubs selling £1 glow sticks or whistles.

The brothers were originally concerned that the charity, which raises money to benefit children through the relief of sickness, poverty, the advancement of education and the provision of recreational activities, had been the subject of an inquiry by the Charity Commission into its fundraising practices in 2004. The commissioners raised a number of concerns and insisted the charity's trustees kept proper records and expense sheets.

This week the Charity Commission said they have been told recently by the trust that some fundraising is being done without their agreement.

Now the brothers have decided not to allow anyone saying they are from Bluebell onto their premises.

Phil Snell said: The last time a collector came in we told them we couldn't let them in until we had some proof of charity.

"One said the office had burned down and all the documents were gone. Both me and my brother host charity events and giving to charity is very close to our hearts.

"I think it is disgusting how people can raise money and pretend it is for charity."

A spokesman from the Charity Commission said: "Recently we have received complaints about fundraising being carried out apparently on behalf of Bluebell Children's Trust.

"We have raised these concerns with the current trustees of the charity, and they have assured us that this fundraising is taking place without the agreement of the charity, and we have advised them to report this matter to the police."

A spokesman for Bluebell Children's Charitysaid: "We are a legitimate charity, which helps disabled children. We are currently working on a website which will show what the money we raise is being used for. "