22 September 2012 Last updated at 06:54 ET

North Yorkshire groups offered cash from crime proceeds

Community groups in North Yorkshire are being offered the chance to bid for a share of £25,000 seized from criminals.

The Proceeds of Crime Act allows criminals' money and assets to be seized if they have been gained as a result of their crimes.

Over the past two financial years North Yorkshire Police's Financial Investigation Unit has seized more than £2.3m from criminals under the act.

It is the third year the force has offered money to local good causes.

Some of the £2.3m seized has been returned to North Yorkshire Police and other criminal justice partners, according to the force.

Temporary Chief Constable Tim Madgwick said the Why Should They? campaign had donated £49,000 to 28 local good causes.

Non-profit making organisations, charities and community groups can apply for up to £3,000 from the fund. The closing date for applications is 31 October.