A Reigate Scout Group is one of six causes and projects across Surrey which have been given a share of more than £20,000 funding from assets seized from criminals.

The 17th Reigate Scout Group has been awarded £5,000 towards the building of a purpose-built Scout and community hall under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA).

The Act sees assets confiscated from criminals and put back into communities.

Surrey Police received a record number of applications for funding this year in the third round of the ‘Cash for Communities' project.

The project allows the proceeds of crime to be used to support community initiatives that reduce crime and the fear of crime, and help combat anti-social behaviour or complement local policing priorities. The 17th Reigate Scout Group currently meets at a neighbouring Scout hall following the demolition of the hall it previously used at St Joseph's Church, Redhill.

The arrangement though was not sustainable in the long-term. Now, the new building which its POCA award is going towards, is being designed for shared community use.

Detective Inspector Jo Hayes, who leads on the project, said: "The Force received a record number of applications for funding this year which only goes to show the continued value of the Cash for Communities project.”

Det Insp Hayes said: “We hope that the grants will make a real difference to the six successful projects that are working to reduce crime, the fear of crime and to improve community safety.

"We need the public to do their bit to ensure we can continue to hit criminals where it hurts the most – in the pocket.”

She said: “If you suspect that someone is living off the proceeds of crime - for example, someone who shows external signs of wealth yet doesn't seem to have a job or legitimate income - then either contact Surrey Police directly by calling 101, or call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. “All information will be treated in confidence and proactively followed up.”

Kevin Hurley, Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey added: "The public expect a zero-tolerance approach to the criminals preying on innocent people and making a living from the misery of others. “It is right that Surrey Police takes every opportunity to seize the profits of their crime. "It is good to know that, thanks to some excellent work by Surrey Police and the help of the community, criminals are worse off to the tune of £20,000.”

He said: “It is even better to see that money now being put to good use on worthwhile projects that will help people across the county.”

The six successful applicants - 17th Reigate Scout Group with Woking Street Angels, The Matrix Trust in Guildford, Runnymede Police Community Boxing Club, Runnymede Neighbourhood Watch and St Michael's Project Group in Surrey Heath – were all awarded funds of between £1,000 and £5,000.

For more information about the Cash for Communities scheme visit the website at: www.surrey.police.uk/about-us/our-community/cash-for-communities