A CASH windfall will help tackle crime and disorder in Wychavon.

The Home Office cash has been given to the district's community safety partnership as part of the Government's safer communities initiative.

The £23,000 will be used to tackle problems highlighted in a recent audit carried out by the partnership, which includes Wychavon District and Worcestershire County Councils, West Mercia police, the probation service and health authority.

Concerns raised in the survey conducted at the end of 2001 will be dealt with the help of the district-wide crime and disorder plan, which is due to be launched on Friday, May 3.

Under the plan special action groups involving residents will be set up to deal with issues such as property crime, domestic violence, rural crime and drug and alcohol abuse.

Wychavon community safety co-ordinator Alan Paul said: "There are a number of issues to address for the future and we will need to set up local projects to make a difference.

"These funds will make our plans a reality. The partnership will make the most of the money and will use it to maximum effect."

Mr Paul said the timing of the Home Office grant was entirely coincidental.