CASH seized from criminals is being offered to community groups by Thames Valley Police.

Crime commissioner Anthony Stansfeld and chief constable Francis Habgood launched the new round of the Police Property Act Fund yesterday.

The fund is created from money recovered by the police and proceeds from the sale of items that cannot be returned to identified owners, including seizures from criminals.

Last year £92,950 was distributed to 28 different organisations with initiatives addressing policing priorities and the PCC and chief constable expect to allocate around £100,000 in this new round.

Applications are now invited from community groups and organisations who can contribute towards two of the PCC’s strategic objectives in his police and crime plan priorities.

These are 'reducing reoffending' and 'serious organised crime and terrorism'.

Mr Stansfeld said: “Every year, I am delighted to see the good work that is being carried out by the voluntary and community sector and the difference they make. Working in partnership with organisations is crucial when addressing issues such as re-offending and serious organised crime."

Application form and more information can be found at thamesvalley-pcc.gov.uk