Cash seized from criminals is to be used to set up basketball schemes in cities across Scotland, a minister said today.

Cash seized from criminals is to be used to set up basketball schemes in cities across Scotland, a minister said today.

A scheme which already operates in Glasgow is to be extended to Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Inverness and Stirling.

It will involve 12,000 youngsters in those cities at a cost of £1.8 million, in a programme which targets youngsters on Friday and Saturday nights.

The money, to be spent over three years, is from a scheme which uses money seized from the proceeds of crime to help local communities.

The activities will be delivered by two organisations, Scottish Sports Future and Basketball Scotland.

Justice secretary Kenny MacAskill said twilight basketball had already made a difference to the lives of youngsters in parts of Glasgow blighted by anti-social behaviour and gang activity.

"The devil finds work for idle hands and that is why this government is committed to giving our young people positive things to do with their lives," he said.

"We want to show them that there is more to life than drink, drugs and offending.

"Basketball as a street game can help stop kids from getting into trouble or up to mischief.

"It's a game they watch on TV and see in other media outlets. Now they are getting a chance to play it."

Rob Yanders, captain of the Scottish Rocks professional basketball team said: "In my early years I made some bad decisions which almost cost me my life.

"I worked my way through some difficult times.

"Because of this I have a good understanding of the challenges which face young people on the streets in Scotland.

"All of us at the Rocks are looking forward to being involved in this expansion programme."

Labour MSP Paul Martin said: "I'm pleased that the Scottish Government are continuing this Labour scheme.

"The former justice minister Cathy Jamieson set up the structure for using cash clawed back from criminals for basketball and it's been proved that this can be a good use of these resources."