An extra £4 million-worth of support grants have been handed out to another 305 businesses in just five days in Copeland.

It means almost £7 million has been given to 550 businesses which have asked for help to tackle Covid-19.

Government grants of £25,000 are being awarded to businesses in the retail, leisure and hospitality sector, dependant on rateable value.

These businesses are also eligible for 100 per cent business rate relief, for a period of 12 months, irrespective of rateable value.

The grants are co-ordinated by Copeland Council and the authority announced last Wednesday that it had handed out around £3 million.

For more information and to apply for rate relief or cash grants go to www.copeland.gov.uk/coronavirus-resources-business, email business.rates@copeland.gov.uk or call 01946 598300.