IT is ironic that money from ill-gotten gains is now being used to help community projects.

Criminals have been forced to hand back more than £97,000 which will now be used in three community projects in Gwent.

The money comes from crimes including drug and people trafficking, money laundering, burglaries, robberies, fraud and tax evasion.

And it was the public that decided where this money should go.

A total of £4million will be given out nationally for a total of 269 projects.

This money will give a huge boost to groups who often struggle for funds.

The three local groups include a Neighbourhood Watch scheme in Pill and an anti-bullying scheme ­ worthwhile causes indeed.

For once, the saying Œcrime pays¹ appears to be coming true.