Four charitable groups in Thanet have received funds from the Kent Police Property Fund.
The money, which is raised through the sale of lost property and unclaimed items seized during operations, is shared out each year to several worthwhile ventures following nominations by Kent Police employees.
This year the Broadstairs Harbour and Seafront Group, Monkton Under 5s Playgroup, Thanet Wanderers Rugby Football Club and 4th Broadstairs Scout Group each received a cheque of up to £500 at a presentation held at Margate Police Station on Tuesday 6 March.
The Broadstairs Harbour and Seafront Group
The group is made up of fishermen who volunteer their time to help with the town’s regeneration. They are focussing on the maintenance of a listed boathouse, which dates back to the 1500s and has fallen into disrepair. The money donated to them will assist with the cost of materials to repair the part of the building that faces the sea.
The Monkton Under 5s Playgroup
The group is also a registered charity that provides childcare and pre-school preparation to a maximum of 12 children. Those volunteering at the playgroup organise a variety of activities and rely on funding to be able to buy extra resources. The playgroup will now receive some new equipment, including sand boxes, for its outside space thanks to the money donated.
The Thanet Wanderers Rugby Football Club
The club gives around 300 local children the opportunity to play rugby and football each week and stay fit. One of the volunteers, Jason Deacon, looks after the under 13s team. The money donated by Kent Police will be used to buy lights for the ground so that mid-week sessions after school can be provided to the children and training can take place during the evenings.
The 4th Broadstairs Scout Group
The group offers activities to around 120 girls and boys in Broadstairs. The group promotes self-discipline, improves confidence and helps young people learn skills that will stay with them for life. The building in Belvedere Road is more than 60 years old and the original steel front door to the building needs to be replaced. The money donated to the group will be used to pay for a purpose built door.
Chief Inspector Sharon Adley at Kent Police, who presented the cheques, said: “It was a pleasure to be able to help charities that do so much for Thanet residents.
“In all of these cases, the charities focus on local people and show great respect for our community. It’s clear all the volunteers I spoke to during the presentation have a common goal, to make Thanet a better place to live. And that’s exactly what we want to do here at Kent Police too.
“There are many benefits to supporting volunteers who provide a good solid start to the lives of young people. Between us all we can keep Thanet safe and attractive to those visiting on holiday or looking to move to the area. Support like this helps local businesses to thrive too.
“I’m very passionate about the work we do and I’m proud to see so many other people investing in their towns as well.”