YOUNGSTERS across York and North Yorkshire are being asked to come up with bright ideas which could help make their communities safer.

Crimefighting suggestions from throughout the region are being sought by the North Yorkshire Crimebeat initiative, with the best of the entries having the chance of winning cash to turn the plans into reality.

The scheme provides grants and awards for projects focusing on community safety where most of the work is done by young people, and anybody aged between ten and 18 can get involved.

The Crimebeat money comes from the High Sheriff of North Yorkshire’s Fund. All the suggestions need to have reached a point where they can be assessed by next April.

Last year’s competition received a record 21 entries and saw £1,750 in prize money awarded.

The overall winner in 2009 was a Scarborough-based campaign concentrating on awareness of rape, which then went on to win the national finals and recieved a prize of £2,000 to develop its aims.

“The young people always show a great deal of initiative and commitment which I find inspiring,” said the High Sheriff, Richard Compton.

“They set a fine example to their peers.”

A rule change for this year’s Crimebeat drive means ideas do not have to be solely devised by the young people. Some adult involvement will be allowed, and the schemes that are put forward do not necessarily have to be completed by next April. Entries can be produced individually or from teams within schools, youth clubs, community groups and other applicants.

The closing date is Friday, December 17.

Grahame Maxwell, North Yorkshire’s Chief Constable, said: “I am delighted we have the opportunity to support such a worthwhile competition.

“I look forward to seeing this year’s entries and I know they will continue to be of the high quality we have seen previously.”

More information is available by logging on to northyorkshire.police.uk/crimebeat