Sussex Police who are cracking down on beggars have announced they are giving £1,000 to an organisation which provides shelter for the homeless.

The grant dovetails with the force's current call - don't give to beggars but give instead to agencies that help them.

Police said cash gifts to beggars often end up in the hands of drug dealers.

The call led to an Argus campaign to clear the streets of beggars, which police said has proved a resounding success.

The cash grant, from the Brighton, Hove and Shoreham police divisions, is going to the St Patrick's night shelter in Cambridge Road, Hove.

The money is coming from the Sussex Police Authority joint initiative fund.

Superintendent Andy Bliss, of Brighton police, said there was no doubt some members of the homeless community commit crimes.

But he added: "Equally, many of them, while law-abiding, have complex problems and are vulnerable to attacks in the streets.

"I and my officers want to emphasise that we provide services to everyone and we want to try and help homeless people access the services they need."

Stephen Sharpe, chief executive of St Patrick's, welcomed the grant.

He said: "We are already working closely with police on this project and this funding is further evidence of a committed approach by all concerned to seek the best possible outcome for rough sleepers."