APPLICATIONS for grants of up to £500 will close on October 28.

Bids are invited for grants from the Crimebeat funds which are sponsored by the High Sheriff of Devon.

Crimebeat is a national initiative which aims to empower local people to make a real difference in their community.

The aim is for people to develop crime prevention and educational initiatives that will help cut crime; educate young people about the effect of crime and raise awareness of the dangers of alcohol, drug and solvent abuse.

Projects can vary from preventing vandalism in schools, to running a non-alcohol youth club for young people.

These are just a few ideas and there is no limit to the possibilities.

Funding for the Crimebeat grants is obtained from money recovered from criminals via POCA (Proceeds of Crime Act) and seizure of assets (Police Property Act).

Inspector Julian Pezzani from Devon & Cornwall Police, said: “With funding from Crimebeat grants, local people are given the opportunity to do something that will help create safer communities and help young people keep out of trouble."

 To submit an application, go to: http://devoncf.com/apply/apply-for-a-grant/individual-grants/