CHARITY bosses are cashing-in on counterfeiters after taking delivery of more than £315,000 of fake goods.

The pirated UGG boots, Armani T-shirts, Adidas trainers and Prada tracksuits were donated to Glasgow The Caring City.

The items were confiscated during raids at the Barras market between 2009 and 2010.

Police Scotland's Chief Inspector David Pettigrew said: "Rather than destroying the clothing, we thought it would make more sense that a local charity benefit from the donation.

"For us this is a win, win situation.

"We take them from the criminals and give to people in need.

"We have the consent and support of the brands to make the donation, for which we are very grateful."

The counterfeit goods will be shipped overseas to those in need by Glasgow the Caring City charity.

Chief executive Rev Neil Galbraith said: "We cannot thank Police Scotland and the officers at London Road enough for this donation.

"It will allow us to continue to support our overseas work, while at the same time allow us to divert much needed assistance and caring to the people of the West of Scotland through the resources being saved and the costs involved.

"In this Commonwealth Games year, when the world comes to Glasgow, its important to let it be known the generosity of Glasgow will always be shown to a world in need."

Chief Inspector Pettigrew added: "We will continue to disrupt and pursue those who deal in counterfeit goods and would say to people, that while the goods may look good and are cheap, your money is going directly to fund organised crime and has a significant impact on honest traders and the communities in which we all live."

louise.houston@ eveningtimes.co.uk