Consumers in Teignbridge have been warned not to be duped into handing over clothing and other goods to companies who mimic the tactics used by charities. A company called Orellana Ltd has leafleted households in Kingsteignton and Newton Abbot, saying it urgently needs clothing, blankets, sheets and cosmetics. It thanks householders for handing over the goods which, if left in a bag on the doorstep, will be collected. In the small print the company says it is a 'collection company who provide people in third world countries with clothes for families they can afford'. It also states that it creates employment both in the UK and the third world and is a registered company. But across the country consumers have complained about the tactic and the firm, who cannot be contacted, are being de-registered by Companies House. Now Consumer Direct, the government watchdog, has told this newspaper that householders should think twice before handing over goods to commercial operators. 'Charities often make use of doorstep collections to gather donations directly from people's homes. However, some of these charity collections are bogus,' said spokesman, Bernice Williams. 'It is estimated by the Association of Charity Shops that the potential value of donated clothing and other items 'lost' to legitimate charities as a result of these bogus collections amounts to more than £1m per annum. 'The flyers give the misleading impression that the items are being collected for charitable purposes. In reality, the collections seem to be organised by commercial operators who sell the donated items for profit. Ms Williams urged those with any doubts to contact Consumer Direct South West on 08454 040506 for further advice.
