HUNDREDS of businesses have been awarded cash grants totalling £7 million.

Copeland Council has awarded almost money to 550 businesses in the area.

A total of £6,955,000 in Government grants has been handed to businesses eligible for either the small business grant fund, or the retail, leisure and hospitality grant fund, dependant on rateable value.

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

Small and rural businesses can register for cash grants of £10,000 and some are eligible for 100 per cent rate relief.

Small business awards are dependent on the rateable value being less than £15,000.

Retail, leisure and hospitality businesses with rateable values up to £15,000 can also register for a £10,000 cash grant.

Call 01946 598300 for more.