To say please don’t give money to the Christmas market beggars

[Nutmuncher]

This will seem controversial to some but as someone living in a City centre the Christmas markets attract high numbers of beggars, addicts and alcoholics.

Please do not give them money because it simply encourages them to keep coming back every year in larger numbers. It is frustrating to say the least when you see the same faces sat in the same spots day after day and visitors take pity on them without realising they’re only perpetuating the never ending cycle.

My advice is to instead donate to your local children’s charity or food bank to give to those struggling to provide who aren’t begging or feeding an addiction.

How do you know that? My son worked with homeless charities, and knew all of our city centre "beggars". All had accommodation and benefits.

I give to the Sally Army or Shelter, not to the beggars.

I don't want the responsibility of deciding who's genuine and who's on the fiddle.