People are being urged to beware of the latest mail scam following an increase in the number of reports of begging' letters.

West Yorkshire Police say the letters often appear to be sent by people who claim to be victims of misfortune from troubled parts of the world.

The letters end by asking for further contact in order to make a donation or receive funds in trust.

Detective Sergeant Steve Battle, of the Economic Crime Unit, said: "These letters have circulated for many years, surfacing from time to time in different parts of the country.

"They are usually sent from abroad and provide contact details and other information which involves international enquiry and so makes them difficult to trace and investigate.

"I would advise members of the public receiving any such letter to treat it with suspicion and not to respond to it.

"It is merely an attempt to get people to send money. Money sent will certainly not be put to assisting someone in unfortunate circumstance."

Anyone receiving such letters should contact Consumer Direct on 0845 4040506.

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