Goods seized from crooks go to Africa

Peter Reid arranged for the counterfeit goods to be sent to Malawi, continuing his incredible dedication to charity work in the country.

The clothing and footwear were seized during a police raid last year and were set to be destroyed following the case against the individuals involved. However, Peter contacted the Procurator Fiscal and has been able to secure their shipment to Malawi instead.

The Betty Cunningham International Trust, set up to relieve poverty, advance health education and help disadvantaged people, will deliver the items.

For the past four years Peter and his family have sent supplies, money, and visited the village of Lilongwe in the southeast African country.

He said: "When I heard about the confiscated goods I immediately thought about the prospect of having them sent to Malawi. I was aware of the work carried out by the Betty Cunningham Inter-national Trust and contacted Betty. We arranged a meeting to hand over the shoes and the clothing.

"I hope to return to the country myself in October and I will get a chance to see for myself how the local community has benefited.

"I am grateful to everyone involved in making this possible and I am certain they will make a massive difference."

Peter patrols in Cumbernauld and Kilsyth and his charity work has led to him being labelled Scotland's nicest traffic warden!

Peter's involvement with the trust merely continues his acts of generosity and personal sacrifice in a bid to improve the quality of life for Malawians. His commitment has culminated in him sponsoring a family and giving a youngster a chance for a private education in pursuit of his dream of becoming a lawyer.

He said: "When I first went to Lilongwe it was a holiday first and foremost but when I witnessed the level of deprivation facing the people I felt I had to help.

"The thing that struck me most was the quite unbelievable generosity of the people, they had nothing but would give you their last piece of food to make you feel welcome.

"My colleagues have always been supportive and last year the officers and staff from North Lanarkshire Policing Division donated medicines, over 500 and even football strips for the children.

"The children made a banner which said thank you to Cumbernauld Police. I have shown this to my colleagues and it makes it real for them to see that they have made a difference."

Chief Inspector Brian Connel, deputy sub-divisional officer at Cumbernauld, said: "The level of Peter's dedication to charity work in Malawi is incredible and all of his colleagues are supportive of his efforts.

"It is particularly pleasing when the proceeds of crime can be put to such use and make a real difference to disadvantaged people."

"Our thanks also go to Councillor Betty Cunningham for the terrific work she carries out through her Trust."