Mendip District Council has issued in excess of £14 million in grants to more than 1,000 organisations affected by the coronavirus crisis – offering a lifeline to Mendip businesses and the local economy.

Some 3,500 companies across the district will be assisted through the government's measures (additional reliefs and/or grants), and small businesses are being encouraged to apply online to access the help.

Leader of Mendip District Council, Cllr Ros Wyke, said: "The resilience of our local businesses is critical at this time. We understand how much these grants can make a real difference.

"The council's dedicated staff are focused on efficiency, processing applications knowing that businesses need these funds for survival.

"We would urge those who have not completed the online form to act now."

• Application forms are easy to navigate and can be found on Mendip District Council's website www.mendip.gov.uk/businessrates
• Businesses in the retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors with a rateable value of under £15,000 will receive a grant of £10,000 per property
• Businesses with a rateable value of between £15,001 and £51,000 will receive a grant of £25,000 per property

Application forms can be submitted online here: the Mendip site.