Police are investigating apparent thefts of donated clothes left at the front of charity shops.

Thieves have taken bags of garments and loaded them onto a van after closing time at shops in Green Lane, Dagenham.

Police said an investigation is underway concerning the thefts but no arrests have been made yet.

Supt Gary Buttercase said: “I am saddened that thieves have taken advantage of the good intentions of the community who have gone to the trouble of donating their unwanted items to benefit charities.”

Anyone with information should call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or the non-urgent reporting number 101.