A SCAM artist has been posing as a food bank volunteer in Hereford as the festive season approaches.

Police have issued a warning after an incident was reported by Hereford Food Bank.

A person has been claiming to be a volunteer from the city food bank, which supplies lifeline groceries to those in need in the area.

The scammer is reported to have been asking for donations from establishments and members of the public.

Hereford police community support officer Julie Slatter said genuine food bank volunteers will always carry identification, and this will usually be displayed on a lanyard.

A spokesperson for Hereford Food Bank said the person is reported to have been collecting cash in a bucket and claiming to be one of the charity's volunteers.

"Our volunteers only collect at organised events and will always have food bank ID," said the spokesperson.

"Please remember to check ID if you see anyone collecting cash on behalf of a charity."

Anyone with any further information is asked to report this to the police via the West Mercia Police website or call 101 quoting incident 00186_I_31102024.

Hereford Food Bank is now collecting donations for the Christmas period. Visit https://herefordfoodbank.co.uk for details.