DRUG addict beggars cleared off Swindon's streets will simply resort to other crimes to get cash, says a charity worker.

Phil Smith, of Swindon's Threshold Housing Link, believes addicts desperate for a fix will start using more subtle methods of getting cash.

In particular, he fears they will start conning pedestrians by spinning sob stories such as asking commuters at the railway station for cash so they can visit a dying relative.

Some beggars operating in Swindon already use hard luck tales, often creating elaborate stories and faking emotion to tug at the heartstrings.

Mr Smith, the hostel and resources manager at the homeless charity, was reacting to plans for a clampdown on begging.

"I agree that most beggars are drug addicts but they will get the money from somewhere if they are desperate enough," he said.

"If you stop passive begging, they will resort to more aggressive measures.

"By that I mean directly approaching people for cash, or perhaps shoplifting."

Mr Smith backs the crackdown on beggars but is wary of the repercussions.

"In Manchester recently I was approached by a guy who said he needed a rail ticket to see his ex-girlfriend," he said.

"People are easily taken in because the tales are so plausible. But, over the years, I have been hardened to it and don't give them anything."

Swindon Council and the police are launching a crackdown on beggars in the town centre because of increasing numbers.

Police say all 18 beggars who target the area are heroin addicts. It is also claimed all but two have homes.

Instead of giving cash to beggars, shoppers will be encouraged to support a fund to help beggars get off drugs. Some of the cash will be used by Threshold Housing.

Swindon police spokeswoman Alvina Kumar said: "Approaching people for cash is an offence as it is a form of begging.We have a dedicated group of officers covering the town centre, which will help combat this."

Tamash Lal