COUNTY Durham organisations that work to improve their local communities can apply for grants of up to £20,000 from the Durham Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC).

A Community Safety Fund has been launched by PCC Ron Hogg and applications will be considered from groups that work in areas such as tackling anti-social behaviour, reducing alcohol drug problems and improving road safety.

Applications to the fund will be considered twice a year, in April and September, and the deadline for the first round is April 14.

For further details about the fund and to download a copy of the application form, visit the PCC's website durham-pcc.gov.uk or call 03000-264629.