CASH seized from criminals is being used to pay for fun activities for youngsters.

The ROC — Redeeming Our Communities — cafe in Winchester Way, Breightmet has been given £4,000 under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA), with the Greater Manchester High Sheriff’s Police Trust donating an additional £2,000.

POCA allows police to seize cash made through criminal activity and invest it in communities which have been affected by crime.

The youth club attracts more than 40 young people aged between 11 to 16 on Friday evenings and on Thursday it is used by children of primary school age.

Young people had a say on what they wanted in the cafe and they have chosen a pool table, table football, video games and a refreshment area.

Money will also be spent on additional equipment for the cafe and also to improve football facilities outside.

Becky Everrett, aged 12, said: “I would like the money to be spent on encouraging even more young people to come to this centre.

“I really enjoy coming here and have made loads of new friends.”

Angel McCann, aged nine, added: “I would like to see more people working here and organising activities.

“My confidence has increased. Before I was scared of just tapping the ball when I played football here and now I play properly.

“I would also like to see the money spent on improving the football.”

The ROC cafe also enables police to work with young people.

Inspector Wayne Readfern, from the Bolton East Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Crime doesn’t pay and I’m pleased our communities will be able to benefit from the ill-gotten gains seized from criminals.

“The ROC Cafe is a rewarding project which helps make a difference to the lives of young people in our communities.

“It is a safe place for them to meet up, make new friends and take part in constructive activities, instead of hanging around on street corners with nothing to do.”