CASH seized from convicted criminals is being used to provide much-needed new equipment for a youth band.

The Blackhall Youth Band, which has 14 members aged seven to 15, was formed in 2005 and rehearses once a week in term time at the local community centre.

Last night (Tuesday, September 15) the band received a new set of four cornets, as well as spare mouthpieces - bought with £500 from recent cash seizures made by police under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Community centre manager Alison Paterson said: “Getting the cornets is going to give the children access to more instruments. So it is hopefully going to attract more children to join the band.

“We have already got some new people come tonight, so they must have got wind of it."

The band has sessions from 6pm to 8pm on Tuesdays.

Mrs Paterson said: “The children pay £3 each and that pays for the loan of the instrument, which they can take home with them to use to practice.

"The band gives them a taste of brass. Some of them play at school, but they can come and practice out of the school setting."

A Durham Police spokesman said: "Police forces can use proceeds of crime cash to benefit local good causes and community projects.

"This is an example of how we can take ill-gotten gains and use them for the good of the community. It is a pleasure to use such funds for an excellent cause."