COUNCIL chiefs have pledged to tackle the problem of ‘nuisance’ charity fundraisers - or ‘chuggers’.

The move follows complaints from shoppers and visitors to towns across the borough about the tactics of some charity collectors.

Others have told of being pestered to provide direct debit details in the street.

Now Cheshire East Council has vowed to manage the behaviour of fundraisers.

The council has been working in partnership with town councils and the Public Fundraising Regulatory Association (PFRA) to hammer out voluntary agreements as a basis to resolve tensions and monitor professional standards of street collectors.

Councillor Les Gilbert, cabinet member in charge of localism and enforcement, said: “We know there is a problem and we are determined to do the right thing by our residents, local shops and businesses – and reputable charity collectors who run risk of being tarred with the same brush.

“This council is committed to protect and support our local residents from unacceptable conduct and harassment by some street fundraisers. We also want to ensure that reputable and considerate charity collectors are also protected and supported.

“We are keen to promote the vibrancy of our town centres as great places to shop, visit and do business. This initiative aims to assist retailers who are concerned that shoppers are being put off coming by the activities of ‘chuggers’ on our high street.

"The problem for all towns is that there is no legislation that covers in detail the activities of ‘chuggers’. However, a recent meeting with our partners in this area provided a great deal of positive information centred on the role of the PFRA with a voluntary code with sanctions.

"We will now look to create an effective Cheshire East framework, within which each town will specify its own requirements as a basis for discussions, conducted under the guidance of the PFRA. We believe that a co-ordinated approach across our towns is the best way forward.”