A WARNING has been issued in the Wee County over bogus animal welfare inspectors.

The Scottish SPCA has issued the warning in Clackmannanshire after it was alerted to sightings of a white van in Tullibody with fake branding which is not one of its own.

The animal welfare charity is urging members of the public to get in touch if they see the van so it can be reported to police.

Inspector Nicola Liddell, from the Scottish SPCA, said: “We are very concerned by these reports and are asking members of the public to be vigilant.

“First and foremost we would urge anyone who has seen or encountered this van to get directly in touch with us.

“We will then notify Police Scotland who can investigate this fraudulent behaviour.

“The van is white with a Scottish SPCA sticker on it.

“Our vans are predominantly black with Scottish SPCA branding.

“Our inspectors will always be in uniform and will be able to provide identification badges with a photo and authorisation.

“Our inspectors will also be happy to provide you with vehicle registration.

“If you are at all unsure about someone who comes to your door as the Scottish SPCA then ask them to wait outside and call us immediately.

“Our inspectors will respect your need to do this.

“If anyone can provide any more information on this then please contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”