COMMUNITY groups in Warrington who have a plan to reduce crime can apply for funding from Cheshire's crime commissioner.

John Dwyer is urging any project with a model to improve their area, support victims, or reduce offending, to make an application to the crime prevention fund.

Applications must be made by March 13.

The Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire said: "So far I’ve considered some really good project applications. I’m sure there are more organisations, volunteer and community groups out there who want to make a difference.

“The crime prevention fund demonstrates to me that community spirit is strong.

"If we all work together we can continue to make Cheshire a safer place to live and work.”

Since the fund was launched, the commissioner has approved 47 projects.

They have included several in Warrington.

In December 2013, Mr Dwyer awarded £5,000 to disabled athlete Adrian Derbyshire to buy a bike as part of an initiative to reduce hate crime.

The fencer from Whitecross used the custom-made hand pushbike to visit schools and talk to children about crimes against disabled people.

And in August last year, a sum of £1,200 was given to People and Dogs, based at Bewsey Community Park Centre, Troutbeck Avenue.

The grant was aimed at educating dog owners to reduce problems like dog fouling.

Other projects in Cheshire have included a martial arts school reducing youth offending.

For information on how to apply, the criteria and money available, go to cheshire-pcc.gov.uk.