KNICKERS, a bikini and a "belly button bar" were among seized items auctioned by police to boost local projects.

The unusual lots sold by the Gwent Police Property Fund have contributed to a £26,600 windfall for community schemes over the last three years.

In 2016, the force sold a bikini, high-heeled shoes, a wood-chipper and perfume among 176 other items seized from criminals.

Stand-out lots under the hammer this year included knickers, hair straighteners and a guitar string.

Gwent Police and Crime Commissioner Jeff Cuthbert said it was a "fantastic way" of putting money seized from criminals into the public purse.

Other items auctioned off include a chainsaw, televisions, bikes and garden tools.

In the past three years, Gwent Police have auctioned 360 items, raising £14,141in 2014, £6,985in 2015 and £5,473 in 2016.

Mr Cuthbert said: "I know that small amounts of funding can often make a big difference to people’s lives and can sometimes be the catalyst which can help small community projects to develop, grow and help even more people."