More than half a million pounds, originally seized from criminals, has been awarded to West Yorkshire organisations including two in Bradford and one in Pudsey. 

Cash and assets confiscated under the Proceeds of Crime Act were distributed to 68 projects across the region's five districts on Wednesday night, through West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin's Safer Community Fund.

The Pudsey Community Project, whose services include food aid and a children's clothes reuse scheme, is a beneficiary.

So is Sorted Church, which delivers youth activities in Ravenscliffe and Thorpe Edge.

The Bradford LGBTQ+ Strategic Partnership, which seeks to promote equality and diversity, also received funds.

Director of the Pudsey Community Project, Richard Dimery, said: "Pudsey Community Project exists to transform Pudsey and its surrounding areas, with and for the local community, especially those who are most vulnerable and disadvantaged."

Reverand Canon Tracy Milne, director of Sorted Church, said: "The monies will enable us to develop our Wellbeing Programme for those aged 11 to 25."

Becky Hutchinson, CEO of Equity Partnership, which is linked to the Bradford LGBTQ+ Strategic Partnership, said: "The Mayor’s Safer Communities Fund will allow us to run a series of self-defence classes for our community, which is something that has been requested by our members."

The fund's next grant round is set to open on November 11.