A TEIGNBRIDGE food bank was one of the charities and organisations to benefit from money seized by police from criminals.

Last year, £22,000 was ‘reinvested’ through Devon and Cornwall Police’s Proceeds of Crime Act fund.

Homeless in Teignbridge Foodbank (HITS) received £1,000 to support its work providing food packages to homeless people and those experiencing a crisis.

Superintendent Hayley Costar, who heads the POCA panel, said: ‘It’s fantastic we are able to use money seized from criminals, often who have caused significant harm to our communities, to give back to local people so it can be used for good.

‘The money we award goes to causes that have a positive impact on the lives of people within South Devon.

‘I’m pleased we’ve been able to make such a positive difference to so many worthwhile causes.’