Phoney collectors have been knocking on doors asking for donations to our appeal for Luton & Dunstable Hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Heartless cold callers are using the appeal, which hopes to raise £30,000 for an incubator for the unit, as a way to make fast cash - effectively stealing from the tiny tots who need it most.

The hospital is urging people not to give any money to these bogus fundraisers and is advising anyone who is visited by them to close the door and call the police.

A spokeswoman said: "There have been a number of reports of bogus fundraisers going round houses asking for money in support of the NICU appeal. The hospital does not allow anyone to collect door to door.

"If someone comes to your door please say that you do not want to donate anything. Once you have closed the door please call Bedfordshire Police on 01582 401212. They are happy to come out and investigate these bogus fundraisers."

If you would like to donate, do so via this website or call 01582 718043.

Have you been door knocked by a bogus collector? Click here to tell us about it.