The average figure for beggars is £55 a day, more than a workers average earnings. Those who earn £280 a day are on a similar income to Head Teachers and GPs.

A quarter of people give in the belief that they are helping to provide for bed and food. But in fact, research has shown that 60% of beggars are not homeless, and 70% of those arrested test positive for Class A drugs, such as heroin, crack, or cocaine.

Shoppers and commuters are being asked to donate money to charities which help the homeless instead of giving to beggars.