GRANTS will be available during lockdown to support businesses through challenging times.

Copeland Borough Council is offering a one off Local Restrictions Support Grant, covering the four week period of lockdown.

The council is also working to put together a Additional Restrictions Grant in support of businesses that can remain open but are hard-hit by coronavirus restrictions.

Businesses that do not pay business rates but have been forced to close will also be entitled to the grant.

For more information, contact the business rates team at business.rates@copeland.gov.uk or on 01946 598300.

A spokesperson for the council said: "Please note, we understand that this is a difficult time for the business community.

"We aim to open the application process for both grants, and commence making payments as soon as we are able to do so."