MONEY taken from drug dealers by Warwickshire Police Force has been repurposed to help charity groups throughout the district.

The funds come from a £131,317 windfall secured by Warwickshire Police’s economic crime unit following an enquiry in 2012, which ended in the auction of a house purchased with drugs money.

Girlguiding Alcester and Avon Villages District received a £1,000 donation from the bonus.

Stephanie Jackson, Brownie leader and out-going district commissioner, said: “As one of the recipients, we would like to say how thrilled and incredibly grateful we are to have received this award.

“We provide weekly activities for approximately 200 girls and young women, aged between five and 18, in and around Alcester.

“These activities, along with residential events and adventurous outings, enable them to make new friends and learn new skills, thus developing their confidence and allowing them to discover their full potential.

“We had already been trying to raise the money to allow us to buy an outdoor shelter that will be used throughout the district to enable us to provide a greater range of outdoor activities, including camps, regardless of the weather.

“Our girls tell us they want to do more activities such as water sports which need specialist venues and qualified, experienced instructors. We are exploring ways of using the remaining money to allow us to provide everyone with an opportunity to do something that will challenge them in a fun and adventurous way.

“For many of our girls, such opportunities would cost too much for their families so this award will allow us to be inclusive.”

Cheques were presented at an awards ceremony in Kenilworth on Thursday, December 11 by police and crime commissioner for Warwickshire Ron Ball and chief constable Andy Parker.

Kim Jackson, aged 13, a member of the girlguiding group, attended the awards evening to help receive the cheque on behalf of the district.

She said: “Getting this award is amazing. I've done adventurous activities while I've been in guiding, things like paddle-boarding and high ropes courses but I know that these things cost a lot of money.

"I'm really looking forward to being able to do more thanks to this money and I know my friends feel the same."

Mr Ball said: "This is a truly excellent example of Warwickshire Police working at its best – the hard work and innovative approach taken by the officers has meant that a lot of good can be achieved from what is essentially the proceeds of crime.

“I am delighted to be here this evening and hope that these contributions can help make a significant difference in the lives of local people."

Mr Parker said: “This ruling sends a strong message that police and the courts will pursue anyone involved with criminal drug activity, see they are punished and where appropriate seize property acquired from illegal activities to help support the local community in a positive way.”