TWO charities in the Medway area have received cash from a senior police officer at separate cememonies.

Ch Insp Peter Wedlake presented cheques for £300 to the 2nd Cliffe Scout Group and the Village of Grain Youth Club.

The Scout Group were first to receive their donation. Mr Wedlake then joined the Beavers while they were ‘pond dipping’ in Cliffe Marshes to hand over their cheque.

Group leader Shaun Clark said: "Last year one of our trailers, which was loaded with equipment, was stolen in the Essex area and the money will go towards replacing what was taken. We are very grateful to Kent Police for this donation."

Mr Wedlake later joined the Village of Grain Youth Club to present them with their cheque. The club is run once a week and is the only resource available for the young people in the village.

The money will go towards a TV, DVD player and a games console.

Mr Wedlake said: "We often hear that there is not enough for young people to do so we are delighted to support the projects available to motivate and stimulate young minds.

"It was encouraging to meet with those young people who take a keen interest in the clubs on offer to them in Medway."

The cash has been donated from the police property fund which is made up from the sale of property, which has come into police possession, either as unclaimed lost property, or property that has been the subject of a crime (and when it has not been possible to trace the rightful owners).