Criminal money funds Cornish boat revamp

Donated criminal money from the police has allowed a rowing club in Cornwall to invest in its boat.

The neighbourhood police team in St Ives gave £500 to the St Ives Pilot Gig Club to fund new seating in the club's 32ft (9.7m) racing boat named Fortitude.

The Proceeds of Crime Act fund supports groups, projects and charities with money seized from criminality.

Pete Preston, Chairman of the St Ives Pilot Gig Club, said the club was "extremely grateful".

He said: "As a small club with a big heart, we are open to all our local community.

"The funding of this much-needed equipment enables us to redirect our limited club funds towards ongoing required maintenance of our gigs, helping to ensure the future of the club in the town."

Terry Webb, Police Community Support Officer, said he was happy the money was "able to make a difference".

He said: "It's fantastic that we can use money earned through criminal activity for good, putting the money back into our community to support local people.

"This club has been at the heart of the community for 35 years, welcoming hundreds of people onboard to keep fit and learn new skills out on the sea."

The newly renovated boat was able to race during the annual World Pilot Gig Championships on the Isles of Scilly in May.

Follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].