Money seized from criminals has helped more than 60,000 youngsters take part in sports schemes, the Scottish Government has announced.

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said seizures from the proceeds of crime had boosted the participation in sports of youngsters, calling the scheme "a resounding success".

He said 43,580 youngsters had taken part in nearly 5000 rugby sessions since pupils returned to school after the summer holidays in August.

He added that so far this year 17,290 youngsters had participated in more than 2500 hours of scheme-funded soccer activities such as "midnight football".

The minister claimed that £3.6m of seized cash would be spent on rugby and football projects over the next three years.

Speaking ahead of meeting youngsters taking part in street rugby and football projects in Hawick last night, Mr MacAskill said: "Giving kids the chance to burn off their energy playing football or rugby keeps them from getting into mischief or worse.

"Who knows, in a few years some of these youngsters could be facing the Springboks at Murrayfield or playing for Scotland's men's or women's national football squad."

Neil Carrie, of Scottish Rugby, said: "Street rugby in particular is an exciting programme where we can offer a fun, non-contact version of rugby at a local sports facility, street or car park where young men and women can play together."