Cars seized by police donated to college

Three cars seized by police but unclaimed by their owners have been donated to a college to help students.

The cars were handed over to Truro and Penwith College's automotive department on Thursday.

Devon and Cornwall Police said it recovered 1,886 vehicles in 2024, adding the introduction of the initiative would allow police to re-direct cars "from the scrap heap to the classroom".

Sgt Owen Messenger of the roads policing team said the vehicles were seized for reasons including no license or no insurance.

Phil Hanson, motor vehicle lecturer at the college said: "The kind donation of these vehicles allows our students to engage directly with real-world automotive systems, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers in the motor vehicle industry."

Police said road casualty reduction officers worked with the force vehicle recovery team in a bid to identify the vehicles.

Sgt Messenger said: "Working in partnership with colleges in Devon and Cornwall allows us to give the vehicles a new purpose and contribute to a better learning experience for automotive students.

"We're looking forward to continuing this valuable work."

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