A CLEVELAND-based premature baby charity has been shut down following investigations by the Charities Commission.

Baby Assist, a charity for babies born prematurely or with birth defects, had been collecting money throughout the North-East. Investigations have now revealed that no funds were used to relieve the suffering of babies.

After collectors' commissions and other costs were met, the charity simply retained leftover money in the bank.

The commission began investigations after many complaints from the public, police and local authorities about the charity's fundraising methods.

An inquiry found that fundraising staff were misleading donors and licensing officers about how the funds would be spent.

A number of fundraising staff were also said to be taking some of the money collected as payment.

An investigation into how the money raised was being distributed failed to find any evidence of funds or grants being given to local hospitals.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Charity Commission said that Baby Assist had failed to act upon warnings and had continued to mislead potential donors. The charity has now been contacted and the trustees were in the process of winding up the operation.

The commission will closely monitor he trustees' action to ensure that, once proper expenses are paid, all remaining funds go to the baby unit at James Cook University Hospital.

Neil Peterson, regional operations manager for the Charity Commission, said: "This case highlights how unscrupulous collectors often target charities collecting for emotive causes. We advise the public to ask questions when approached by a fundraiser and to ask to see the collectors' local authority licence."

If anyone has any concerns about charity collectors they should contact the Commission helpline on 0870 333 0123.

Pubs for sale

ENTERPRISE Inns has produced its latest brochure showing a number of pubs in the region up for sale or lease.

Among those on the market are the Boosbeck, near Saltburn and the Miners' Arms at Coundon. The sale is being handled by Christie and Co; tel 0191 222 1740.