Seized criminal cash funds craft group in Cornwall

Money illegally earned by criminals has been given to a craft club that provides a safe space for women.

Devon & Cornwall Police's neighbourhood policing team said it had awarded £500 to the Women's Institute Craft Group in Porthleven, Cornwall.

The money had been put towards the purchase of new sewing machines and other equipment, officers said.

Police community support officer Julia Berry said it was important to fund community groups to "reduce isolation and support wellbeing".

She added: "This club has been running for a number of years at the heart of the community, providing a wonderful social space for women of all ages to come together to learn and develop their crafting skills."

The president of the craft group, Wendy Harris, said the equipment would "make a real difference".

"Knowing that money recovered from crime is now being used to benefit our local community makes it even more special," she said.

Money is seized from convicted criminals who have financially benefited from crime. and invested into communities to support local causes, police said.

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