TWO Holmes Chapel community projects are set to benefit from a share of almost £100,000.

The Cheshire police and crime commissioner's SWAP fund is being shared out to 28 initiatives across the county.

Among them are the Holmes Chapel Scout Group and Everybody Health and Leisure, which runs the village's leisure centre.

The funding is intended to support young people in learning new skills and building positive relationships.

The fund was launched in September from money seized or recuperated from criminals through the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Police and crime commissioner Dan Price said: "I want to help Cheshire’s communities to be safe and my SWAP fund is one of the ways I’m encouraging communities to get involved.

"The money I’ve made available is the largest amount committed by a Cheshire PCC.

"This demonstrates my clear commitment to residents across the county that I will provide what help I can to help them feel safer in their area.

"Community projects have the power to have a real impact on crime.

"I have seen that often there is clear evidence that positive grassroots projects can divert those who would have committed crime down other avenues.

"I’m looking forward to visiting those who have been awarded the funding, seeing first-hand the positive impact they’ve had."

The SWAP Fund, standing for Safety, Working Together, Action and Prevention, aims to transform negatively acquired money into positive community change.

To be considered for the fund, projects must demonstrate that they can address one of Dan Price’s priorities.

These include improving community safety, supporting victims, providing early intervention programmes, and reducing reoffending.

Mr Price added: "There is still money left in the fund, so I would continue to encourage projects to apply.

"Even if your project needs a small cash injection, if it meets the criteria my team and I want to hear from you."

Additional funds are still available, and applications are welcomed from those seeking funding, particularly express grants of £1,000 which will receive a decision within two weeks of applying.

More information about the SWAP fund can be found on the Cheshire police and crime commissioner’s website.