KENT Police have launched an online shop to help boost funds for community crime prevention initiatives, while meeting the growing demand for police themed products.

Simon Redman, director of Support Services for Kent Police, said: "This is an exciting new venture.

"The online shop is a positive and innovative way to meet demand and hopefully raise money to put back into community projects."

"To get the online shop up and running, we have partnered with an experienced organisation which is set up to supply good quality merchandise using their own retail technology.

"The company, Internova UK Ltd, has already established successful ventures with the London Fire Brigade online shop and the London Transport Museum Shop."

The Kent Police online shop will be accessible via www.policegiftshop.co.uk and will sell a range of T-shirts, baby clothing, toys and gifts - all with a police theme.

Mr Redman added: "Another interesting aspect to this venture is the considerable interest in the historical photographs and pieces we have collected over the 150 year history of Kent Police, which are currently displayed at our museum within Chatham Dockyard and viewed by thousands of visitors each year.

"Prints from the museum are now available from the online shop we have set up so members of the public can share in our history. We will also be regularly updating the products that are available to buy.

"It is expected that the shop will eventually create surplus funds to cover the cost of its development and also, to contribute to crime prevention initiatives across the county."