People are being warned not to leave donations outside charity shops as doing so could be considered fly-tipping.

Isle of Man Constabulary has issued the warning and says items left outside have even included knives and other sharp implements.

While people may believe they are doing something positive, police say leaving unwanted items can cause more harm than good.

The warning follows a number of items being left outside the Crossroads charity shop in Tynwald Street, Douglas, an organisation supporting carers and people with care needs.

Posting on social media, the force said: ‘We have received reports from Crossroads Isle of Man regarding some donators leaving items outside their shops when closed.

‘While many people may believe they are making a donation, items left outside opening hours can cause dangers and could be considered as fly-tipping which is an offence.

‘More concerningly, recent reports have highlighted dangerous items, including knives and other sharp implements, being left amongst dumped goods.’

Police also warned that items left outside could be damaged or deteriorate in bad weather.

The post added: ‘In addition, once exposed to the weather, animals, or contamination, many of these items can no longer be used or sold and often become waste that charities must pay to remove.’

Police say items left outside could pose a serious risk to children who may come across them, as well as charity staff and volunteers tasked with clearing the area. They also warn that some items could be used for criminal purposes.

Anyone wishing to donate goods should do so during a charity shop’s opening hours unless alternative arrangements have been agreed.

People are also being urged never to leave knives, sharp objects, electrical items or hazardous materials outside any premises.

Anyone who discovers weapons, knives or other potentially dangerous items that have been discarded should not handle them unless it is safe to do so and should contact police for advice. If dangerous items such as knives or weapons are found, police should be contacted immediately.