A community centre is encouraging good causes to apply for a fund after its previous successes.

Brookvale Community Centre in Runcorn previously applied for and was awarded a share of the fund launched by Cheshire's Police and Crime Commissioner.

The centre received the money from the SWAP Fund - Safety, Working Together, Action, and Prevention - to help equip its community café.

Now, a new allocation is available to be bid for by new PCC San Price.

The fund is the largest ever made available by the police and crime commissioner and comes from the Proceeds of Crime Act, which is money that has been seized or recuperated from criminals operating in the county.

Mal Hampson, operational manager at Brookvale Community Centre, said: "We were delighted that we received PCC funding, it made such a massive difference to our community here in Runcorn.

"It enabled us to buy furniture for our community café, which has grown from strength to strength.

"I would highly recommend anybody who’s thinking about applying to do it.

"It will make such a difference to your community.

"It is such an easy process and help is at hand if it’s needed."

Dan Price wants to fund innovative ideas (Image: Dan Price, Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner) The fund is aimed at volunteer groups and not-for-profit organisations, with applicants able to apply for between £1,000 and £5,000.

This year, the SWAP fund is 50 per cent larger and more flexible than previous community funds.

The requirement for all funds to be matched has been removed, with communities able to pledge volunteer hours instead.

Dan Price, police and crime commissioner for Cheshire, said: "Residents often know best when it comes to what their communities need to feel safer – that's what the SWAP Fund is all about.

"I know from talking to so many residents across Runcorn that there are some great ideas that could make a real difference.

"The SWAP fund is there to help bring those ideas to life.

"We have so many committed community champions in Runcorn.

"I can’t wait to read some of these applications, visit some of these initiatives and see the positive impact this funding will have."

The police and crime commissioner wants to fund projects that focus on one of his priorities.

These include improving community safety, reducing offending and reoffending, supporting victims of crime, reducing crime and antisocial behaviour, youth engagement projects, and crime prevention and early intervention.

More information about the fund and the application form, visit the Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner's website.