PROFESSIONAL beggars who aren't homeless are targeting shoppers in Poole and Bournemouth, Dorset's Police and Crime Commissioner has warned.

Martyn Underhill said people who have houses are accepting charitable donations from the public - and jeopardising those who really are vulnerable.

"As part of my role, I'm speaking to police, members of the public, businessowners - that's how I know," said Mr Underhill.

"There are at least two professional beggars working in Poole town centre alone.

"They drive to the High Street, park their cars, beg during the day and then go back to their cars and drive to their houses.

"It's absolutely outrageous and people should be aware of it.

"There are people who are really in need living on the streets, including people who have served in the forces.

"If we can identify who these professionals are, they should absolutely be prosecuted."

It is believed that Wednesday night is a particularly busy time for professional begging as students head out to specialised events across the conurbation.

One officer told the Daily Echo: "Students will hand over half a bottle of vodka to a beggar, and that's them sorted for the evening."

Speaking on behalf of Bournemouth and Poole councils, Caroline Roundhill, housing strategy and policy manager, said:"It is important to note that not all people who sleep rough are involved in begging, and not all people who beg are rough sleeping.

"Bournemouth and Poole Councils work in partnership on a daily basis with a range of agencies to assist people who are rough sleeping and to address begging issues.

"There is support available for people who are rough sleeping – Bournemouth and Poole Councils jointly commission St Mungo’s to deliver our rough sleeper outreach service, who ensure that support is offered to anyone rough sleeping in the boroughs. St Mungo’s have worked successfully to help many rough sleepers off the street in Bournemouth and Poole and into housing in the past year.

"If a member of the public is concerned about someone rough sleeping they can help by contacting StreetLink. Go to streetlink.org.uk or call 0300 5000 914. We would encourage residents who want to give money to help people who are rough sleeping to donate through our Make Change Count campaign, where all money raised goes directly to the outreach team who work with rough sleepers in the area. To donate text: BMCC66 £2 to 70070 or go to bournemouth.gov.uk/makechangecount"