Almost £4 million-worth of support has been awarded to 338 businesses across Allerdale affected by the coronavirus outbreak.

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.

Small and rural businesses can apply 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.

The grants are being administered by Allerdale council.

So far, 1,193 applications have been sent to the authority.

Jim Lister, executive member for finance and legal, said: "We know that many businesses are going through a tough time at the moment so I commend the work of Allerdale's officers in getting these applications dealt with so quickly.

"If you've already submitted your application then we will process it as soon as possible, our team is working extremely hard."

Mark Jenkinson, Workington MP, added: "I would encourage people that are eligible for these schemes to apply as soon as they possibly can.

"I would also like to show my appreciation for how quickly Allerdale Borough Council has been able to move on this and that the team there has had the necessary support from Government in order to help as many businesses as possible during this time."

For more information, visit www.allerdale.gov.uk/en/coronavirus/coronavirus-business-grants-claims