LANCASHIRE’S Police and Crime Commissioner has handed out two grants in a bid to curb anti-social behaviour this summer.

Clive Grunshaw has donated £2,000 from his Community Action Fund towards Blackburn’s Inter Madrassah Organisations ninth annual inter faith football tournament.

The tournament takes place on Saturday, August 30, and aims to encourage young people from different faith and cultural backgrounds to mix together and better appreciate each other's values and beliefs.

Darwen-based Act at the Cheethams Ltd also received a £2,000 grant for its Cheets Not Streets programme.

The scheme aims to reduce anti-social behaviour and provides young people with activities every Friday and Saturday night throughout the summer.

The programme also arranges trips out for deprived and disadvantaged youngsters.

The grants were part of a total pot of £9,500 which were handed out by the Commissioner to organisations across Lancashire.

Bob McDonald from the Inter Madrassah Organisation said: “This money is a big boost for us and will help to bring hundreds of young people from all faiths to get together and partake in a competitive sporting contest.

“They will then be signposted for further sporting training and qualifications.

“This is a great way to help curb anti-social behaviour.”

Mr Grunshaw said: “The long summer holidays can be particularly difficult for parents, and that is why I am so delighted to have been able to offer funding to these groups, who are working hard to keep kids active, occupied and out of trouble.

“The volunteers who put so much effort into these schemes are to be praised for the work they are doing.

“I want to see my Community Action Fund spent on projects which support my key priorities, which include reducing crime and anti-social behaviour and protecting vulnerable people.”