BOGUS "rag mag" sellers masquerading as champions of good causes are been targeted following a spate of recent scams across Preston.

Trading standards officers are looking to crack down on aggressive street sellers who prey on town centre shoppers asking them to buy a £1 rag mag.

Many of these bogus sellers claim to support 'good causes' throughout the area such as hospital units or local colleges.

Only last week, one bogus town centre seller passed himself off as a fund-raiser for a fictitious Preston hospital baby unit appeal.

Officers say these magazines are commercially produced and sold for the profit of the sellers and printers - with no contributions to local causes made unless the whistle is blown by the suspecting public. Debbie Robinson, a spokesperson for Preston hospital, said: "We only ever allow collections by individuals or organisations whose credentials have been thoroughly checked.

"We would appeal to the public not to make contributions if they have doubts."

Jim Potts, Preston's chief trading standards officer, said: "Recently these bogus sellers seem to be using hit and run tactics, particularly up and down Fishergate and Friargate.

"There was one instance last week where we spotted one of these bogus sellers who had swapped name tags twice in one day.

"We would urge people to be on their guard against these type of people who make vague references to certain charities."

Councillor John West, leader of Lancashire County Council, added: "We are aware that Preston town centre has recently been targeted for these sales.

"Shoppers are advised to avoid street sellers and only make donations directly to the cause they wish to support.

"Any 'rag mag' sellers operating in this area should be reported immediately to our Trading Standards Department on (01772) 262145."

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