The war against beggars in Canterbury city centre has hotted up with new signs asking people not to give them money.

The signs encouraging donations to homeless charities instead have been placed at the Westgate Towers, on the Weaver’s Bridge, on the corner of St Margaret’s Street and the High Street and at the entrance to the St George’s subway.

The police and city council, who are behind the move, say that if people want to help the homeless, they should do it through the Scrine Foundation or Porch Light, formerly the East Kent Cyrenians.

City council spokesman Rob Davies said: “We consulted with these groups and agreed that any money gathered by homeless people begging would have little positive effect.

“It would be of more benefit if money was given directly to recognised charities.”

Police have also been targeting beggars and sending them through the criminal justice system.

Insp Gordon Etheridge said: “We want Canterbury to be a welcoming place for all and we shall be continuing to work to ensure that beggars do not become a regular sight on the streets.”