Businesses are being urged to check whether they could be eligible for Government grants before a scheme closes at the end of the month.

Nearly £60 million has so far been distributed by South Lakeland District Council under the Small Business and Retail, Hospitality and Leisure support grants scheme to more than 5,000 local businesses.

The council estimates there are still many businesses in the district that are eligible to apply for the £10,000 and £25,000 grants.

The Government has announced applications will close at midnight on August 28.

Councillor Robin Ashcroft, SLDC’s portfolio holder for economy, culture and leisure, said: "We still believe there could be around 1,000 more businesses in the district that qualify that haven’t so far applied, which means there is potentially millions of pounds of support there for them.

"Remember that even if you are registered for business rates but don’t pay anything because you receive rates relief you could still be eligible.

“Hundreds of businesses could still benefit from this crucial funding and I would urge any business owner who thinks there is even a small chance that they could be eligible to check if they should be getting a grant."

Businesses can find more information and an application form at: www.southlakeland.gov.uk/Covid-19BusinessGrants