BUSINESSES in Nelson town centre are being given a helping hand through grants offered by Pendle Council to improve their premises.

Grants of up to £3,000 are available to help businesses improve the external appearance of their properties, or to help pay for internal structural improvements.

The grants are available for a variety of work from minor re-painting jobs, pointing, stone cleaning, through to the complete replacement of the shop front.

Ian Stackhouse, Pendle Council's town centres officer, said: "The grants are being offered on a first come first served basis.

"We would encourage property owners or tenants to come forward as soon as possible, as we have a limited pot of money available this year."

For more information call Ian Stackhouse on 661685