RURAL companies in Lancashire are being encouraged to apply for a share of more than £2m to grow their business.

The Lancashire County Council finance can be used to support a range of activities such as business development, farming, rural services, culture and heritage, and forestry.

It could buy equipment, expand enterprises or create jobs.

The funding is part of the Lancashire LEADER programme 2015/2020.

County Cllr Michael Green, cabinet member for economic development,, said: “We’re calling on rural groups and businesses to apply for this funding, which will help them to create new jobs and boost the local economy.

“The aim is to help rural businesses to diversify, consider new opportunities and develop projects that enrich and develop rural areas of Lancashire.

“Local representatives help to decide which projects to fund in their area. Their knowledge and expertise is used to decide how funding is allocated in their local area.

“We’re calling on businesses and organisations to consider applying. The LEADER programme has already funded a wide range of projects across Lancashire and we’re keen to create even more jobs this time around.”