Over £5,300 which had been seized from two criminals convicted of drugs offences during 2011 has been presented to the Shepway Autism Support Group.

The cash was subject to Crown Court deprivation orders specifying that the money should be used locally by a charity or group

It was agreed by officers and staff at Folkestone police station that the Shepway Autism Support Group should benefit and a delighted group treasurer Julie Burt collected the cheque on behalf of the group.

She said: “We run clubs at the Hythe youth centre and organise other activities for young people with autism and their families. With this money we can begin the new year with confidence, knowing that we can book things throughout the year without worrying how we are going to pay for them.”

Kent Police financial investigator Dan Krista picked the support group with help from colleagues.

Shepway Autism Support Group treasurer Mrs Julie Burt receives the cheque from Kent Police financial investigator Dan Krista (left) and Inspector Jason Wenlock (centre)

He explained: “The group is parent led and involves families who have felt themselves struggling alone as the behaviour issues of their children often alienate people who don't understand.

"Once we heard about the problems these young people, their parents and siblings face in day to day life it was not difficult to decide that they should benefit from the cash. It can now be used to positive affect to help young people in the community."

©Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2012