HUNDREDS of York residents have benefited from thousands of pounds of cash and seen their homes made more secure under an innovative, volunteer-led scheme.

The scheme is known as the North Clifton Home Security Fund, and was set up 15 months ago from the area's crime and community group, a multi-agency group tasked with reducing crime in Clifton.

Funded mainly by the area's regeneration project, the fund has a panel of 11 local residents who assess applications.

Residents can apply for items like burglar alarms, side gates, window locks and shed locks.

Two volunteers then make a home visit to meet the applicant and talk about various options, before a panel decision is made.

A points system, based on a resident's situation, is used to decide whether an application is successful, with unsuccessful applicants given the chance to re-apply.

In the final quarter of last year, £25,000-worth of grants were allocated - and more applications are being invited.

Sergeant Dave Kirby, who polices the Clifton area, also welcomed the scheme. He said: "We want people to feel safe and reassured in their homes, but finance is often a problem when people are looking to enhance the home security measures they have in place.

"This scheme gives people a chance to tackle that problem and find the cash they need.

To apply for a grant, or to volunteer to help with the fund, ring Steve on 01904 690771 or Clifton Residents' Association on 647149.

Updated: 10:19 Thursday, January 10, 2002