PSNI to hand over record breaking donation to NSPCC

The PSNI are set to hand over a cheque for £190,000 today representing the biggest ever single donation raised in Northern Ireland for the NSPCC.

Deputy Chief Constable Paul Leighton, who has led the fundraising effort, will hand over the amount to Catherine Nuttall, NSPCC's Head of Community Appeals. The money was raised during a year of fundraising effort in 2004, after the PSNI adopted the children's charity as its chosen charity of the year.

Mr Leighton said it had been a fantastic response over the year of fundraising.

"We have not only reached our original target but almost doubled it, perpetuating this organisation's fantastic track record for generosity and hard work for local charities,” he said.

“I have watched with a great deal of pride as the numerous activities took place across the entire service. To join the Police Service requires a real desire to make a positive contribution to the community, this phenomenal effort therefore comes as no real surprise, police staff care about those who suffer and want to help.”

Praising the PSNI for their efforts, Ms Nuttall said the sum raised would help protect children across Northern Ireland.

"We had a fantastic year of support from the police during 2004,” she said. “The final total shows the huge level of generosity and commitment across the PSNI. Services that will benefit such as our Schools Counselling Service, Treatment Services and our online advice site for young people, There4me.com will make a real difference to the lives of abused children. On their behalf I want to thank all staff at the PSNI for such brilliant support."

(MB/SP)