A MAN has been charged after reports of a bogus charity collector pretending to gather funds for the Kashmir earthquake.

A man knocked on doors in Nelson claiming to be collecting for the appeal but then stole purses and cash.

Shabir Hussain, 28, of Tavistock Street, Nelson, has now been charged with three counts of burglary. He was remanded into custody by Burnley magistrates and was due to appear in court again today.

Police and community leaders urged people to only give to recognised charities or collectors.

Jamil Munir, of the Pakistan Welfare Association, said: "I would urge anybody who wants to give money towards the disaster appeal to do so through a recognised charity or at any of the mosques in the area and not to people calling at their homes, unless they know the person."

Inspector Jon Bullas from Nelson Police said: "What has happened in Kashmir and Pakistan is terrible and there is an urgent need for money and supplies to support the victims of this tragic event. Be very wary of anyone who knocks on the door unannounced."

Coun Mohammed Iqbal from Pendle Council said: "The best way to give is to a registered charity, perhaps Muslim Global Relief, which has a branch in Nelson or the Disasters Emergency Committee."