A policeman has won a grant of more than £5,000 to keep young people off the streets and away from crime during school holidays.

PC Lee Holmes, of Toller Lane Police, wants to use the money from the Single Regeneration Budget to set up challenging activities for more than 300 youngsters.

The aim is to forge links between police and young people through projects such as abseiling, sailing, canoeing and orienteering.

He said: "Young people are often stereotyped as being bad but it is not the case - it is a small minority who cause trouble.

"I am trying to promote their positive behaviour and reward those youngsters who work with the community and get involved in community projects.

"If we can promote the positive image of young people, it will help reduce the fear of crime and others will be less concerned about them."

Easter trips have been organised to Leeds, Ilkley and Ogden, near Halifax, with more events planned for the summer.

There is also the opportunity of residential weekends for young people who keep out of trouble or are good community role models.

So far, PC Holmes has helped more than 2,000 young people, involving them in youth crime prevention and schemes ranging from football tournaments to driver training.

Toller Lane Police divisional commander Chief Superintendent Phil Read said: "This role is never easy, often because of young people's distrust of police work, but Lee's energy, personality, enthusiasm and determination have made this difficult job a tremendous success."

Councillor Imran Khan, chairman of the Manningham and Girlington Regeneration Partnership Board, said the SRB was delighted to be able to work in partnership with the police and reduce tension in the area.

He said: "The involvement of PC Holmes with young people and the development of holiday activities has helped to combat a lot of the frustration felt by youths.

"They are now provided with diversionary activities and have something to do."