The card system is designed to get beggars off the streets

Essex Police have set up a warning system for people begging on the streets of Colchester.

It is hoped those who are "booked" will get help rather than re-offend.

If someone is caught begging they will be issued with a yellow card and given a warning - and handed a red card if they are caught again.

Their details will be entered into a computer data base.

Pocket guide

If they are caught again they are liable to arrest under the Vagrancy Act.

Pernille Petersen, of Colchester Borough Council, who has been involved with the town's night shelter for the last 20 years, hopes the scheme will prompt those that are "booked" to seek help.

"It is about offering help to the people who actually need it," she said.

That help includes a pocket guide which shows all the services and help available to the homeless.

The booklet, which the homeless themselves have helped to compile, will be handed out over the next two weeks.

After that things get tough and the cards will be issued.