A RUGBY club for people with disabilities has received £1,500 seized from criminals to buy new team kit and equipment.

Colwyn Bay Stingrays is volunteer-run club which enables players of mixed ability aged 14 and above from Dolgellau to Deeside to build their rugby skills, self-esteem and sense of community.

It was awarded the funding as part of the North Wales Police and Community Trust fund, which donates cash seized from criminals to community causes.

The club previously had to rely on borrowing kit from other teams but it will now be able to play in their new shirts, helping to boost the identity of the club and its players.

Inspector Dafydd Curry, who supported the grant application, said: “This club is a valuable resource for young adults with disabilities who struggle to participate in many other social outlets and I have seen how it has transformed many of its members.

“This type of environment is vital for young people, particularly those with vulnerabilities such as behavioural or mental health issues who may otherwise be open to being diverted into anti-social behaviour or crime.

“This will undoubtedly divert some young people from being drawn into the criminal justice system and will reduce demand on the police.

“The club provides them with a therapeutic and supportive environment which will enable them to develop their confidence and form positive relationships with team-mates and volunteers and it’s great that North Wales PACT can support them.”

High Sheriff of Clwyd, David Wynne Finch, said: “I was delighted to be invited to see for myself the impressive and vital work that the Stingrays are doing to support young people through rugby football. I am extremely pleased that the Police and Community Trust have been able to support the club and present them with their new kit. I must also take this opportunity to thank the team of volunteers led by Daf Curry who run the club.”