TWO shops in Nelson town centre have received grants from Pendle Council to help them out.

First Stop, which sells electronic cigarettes, and Choc Stop, offering warm shakes and coffees, have both recently opened.

Coun Paul White, who leads on regeneration, said: β€œIt’s great to support local businesses like these through our premises improvement and business start-up grants.”

Grants can be used for things such as signage, canopies, new windows and window displays. The council can also pay towards new websites for businesses and promotional flyers.

Anyone starting up in Pendle can contact the council for advice. Go to www.pendle.gov.uk/ business or telephone Imtiaz Shah on 01282 661688.