POLICING in Cheshire is to receive a multi-million pound cash boost to tackle crime.

The force will receive an extra £4.1 million next year, as part of the Government's £12 billion law and order settlement.

In addition the constabulary will receive £8 million in specific grants to fund projects such as rural and neighbourhood policing, special priority payments and a DNA expansion programme.

Home secretary David Blunkett said: "Total funding for Cheshire is £111.5 million, an increase of 3.95%.

"With this funding, good financial management and efficiency improvements, Cheshire Police will be able to deliver national and local priorities within a reasonable increase in the police precept which is added to the council tax."