A public warning has been issued to the residents in Cherry Orchard in regards to the bogus collections, purporting to be from St Vincent de Paul.

St Vincent de Paul envelopes have been posted through letterboxes in the Cherry Orchard area notifying residents that they will be back to collect any donations during the week. However, St Vincent de Paul has warned that those envelopes have not been sent by them.

Youths aged between 12 and 14 have apparently been spotted posting the envelopes in the area. St Vincent de Paul are concerned that the scam might dupe some households and have a negative impact on legitimate donations in the lead up to Christmas.

If anyone suspects false collectors operating in the area, they are encouraged to call Ballyfermot Garda Station on 01-666 7200 or your local Garda station.