Around 130 local businesses have submitted their applications for a new discretionary grant scheme launched by Warwick District Council.

The new scheme which opened at midday yesterday (Monday 1 March) is aimed at rated and non-rated businesses who have been unable to access funding through previous support programmes.

Although grant fund has only been open for a few hours some businesses have already received their payment, amongst them is Viv Hudson from Kenilworth Pest Control Limited, he commented: "I was really impressed with the application process and speed of getting payment.

"This grant gives me real peace of mind as it will help to tide my business over for the next few difficult weeks until we can move out of lockdown. I would strongly encourage others to do the same."

Warwick District Council's portfolio holder for business and finance, Cllr Richard Hales added: "As the pandemic continues to put a strangle-hold on our local economy, I am pleased that this Council has once again acted quickly to enable local businesses, who have so far been excluded to access the vital financial support they have been waiting for.

"I would like to extend my thanks to the Council's Finance and Business Support Teams for their continued work."

Through the Part E Discretionary Scheme businesses operating in Warwick district who meet the following criteria could be eligible for a grant of £3000:

• Must have been trading on or before 4 November 2020
• Can demonstrate a loss in business due to Covid-19
• Are not eligible for or in receipt of a grant through the Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) Scheme Part D or Retail, Hospitality, Leisure LRSG scheme

The council is also introducing a separate new scheme for taxi drivers with more details being announced soon.

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For full details of the grant scheme including the eligibility criteria, visit the WDC website.

Applications close at 12 noon on Friday 12 March.