A MAN dressed as Santa Claus was arrested after allegedly taking advantage of people at Consett Bus Station.

The 51-year-old Derwentside man was arrested on Friday last week. A Durham Police spokesman said: "A man has been arrested, for allegedly obtaining cash by deception. He was taken to Consett police station for questioning and released on police bail pending further inquiries."

The spokesman gave some general advice about charity street collections. "If members of the public are at all unsure whether someone claiming to be collecting for a good cause is genuine then they shouldn't give to them and should report the matter to the police.

"Anyone considering carrying out a street collection for charity should contact their local council to ensure they can comply with the necessary procedures which include obtaining a permit."