POLICE and others have welcomed a cash injection of more than 29,000 to help cut crime in South Bucks.

The cash boost from the Home Office, announced last week, and has been awarded to the South Bucks Community Safety Partnership.

The 29,365 will be used to produce a Community Safety Strategy for South Bucks, covering the next three years, to support projects that tackle community safety and reduce the fear of crime.

Sgt Gerry Lister at Beaconsfield said he hoped that some of the cash could be used to help with projects in the town to combat crime.

South Bucks was highlighted as having one of the worst areas for car crime and burglary in the country in a study by Leeds University .

But police have worked to cut the crime rate and Sgt Lister added: "We welcome the funds and hope that some of the funding could be used to help provide something for the youth in the town or help educate people about reducing crime."

South Bucks councillor Jack McKenzie, portfolio holder for safety, health and well-being, said: "The additional money is a very welcome addition to our funds.

"Its award demonstrates Government confidence in the ability of the council and its partners to make a real difference in improving community safety in the district."

The money will strengthen a closer working benefit between South Bucks District Council and partner organisations which include Thames Valley Police, Buckinghamshire County Council, the health service, parish councils and others.

Schemes will include improving security in car parks across the district.