Now that’s a bright idea! The ill-gotten gains of crooks across Bradford are being put to good use – keeping children safe on the roads.

Every year the courts seize assets and cash which are the proceeds of crime from criminals who pass through their doors on their way to convictions.

Now that money from the sale of assets seized from criminals is helping keep children safe in Bradford with the purchase of 500 fluorescent jackets.

The jackets were handed out to youngsters in Wyke yesterday by Police Community Support Officer Denis Bennett to help them stay visible during the darker days and nights.

Children from the Appleton Academy, Shirley Manor Junior and Worthing Head Primary schools received the safety clothing as part of a proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) week of action.

PCSO Bennett, who regularly works with Bradford schools to teach the children road safety, organised the delivery.

Each jacket has writing on the back, saying ‘Junior Road Safety Officer – Wyke Neighbourhood Policing Team’.

PCSO Bennett said: “The idea that these jackets are being partly funded by assets seized from Bradford’s criminals will no doubt be welcomed by people.

“I wanted to do something worthwhile with the money and what could be more worthwhile than helping keep young children safe this winter?

“I hope that they will wear their jackets when they are out and about to help stay visible during the darker days and nights.”

Anyone who believes there are criminals in the community who are living off the proceeds of crime should ring Crime-stoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. For further details they can visit whyshouldthey.com