UNCLAIMED lost property has generated grants worth thousands of pounds to charities in Wiltshire.

Police and crime commissioner Angus Macpherson's office awarded a total of £22,500 from funds raised by the sale of property handed in at police stations.

This year, five charities in Swindon and the surrounding areas received money including, Inner Flame, the Prince’s Trust Team, Royal Wootton Bassett Sea Cadets, The Platform Project, Prime Theatre, and The Open Door Centre.

Mr Macpherson said: “Every year, my office looks at a number of local projects which seek to bring communities together to help improve lives and tackle major issues like anti-social behaviour, drug and alcohol related crimes and youth crime.

“Every applicant we consider through these grants is worthwhile and working with the Wiltshire Community Foundation we go through the agonising task of having to select the ones from a long list.

“The money will go to some very worth while causes which will make a difference to the lives of some living here. I am pleased to say that this year’s recipients are evenly split between Swindon and Wiltshire - ensuring an even spread of money across the country.”