Crackdown launched over scam letters

RESIDENTS are being urged to hand in any scam letters or e-mails they receive at designated collection points across the city in a bid to crack down on cons in the Capital.

The city council has launched a month-long "Scamnesty" which runs until February 28.

Trading Standards officers will collate all the mail deposited in the "amnesty" bins throughout the month and compile a report for the Office of Fair Trading.

The aim is to highlight the most prolific scams and those specifically targeting the elderly and young people.

Councillor Robert Aldridge, the city's environment leader, said: "The people who are behind these scams are often linked to organised crime and have no regard for the distress they may cause, particularly to older and more vulnerable members of the community. Any steps that can be taken to root out such scams are worthwhile."