ELIGIBLE businesses across Ludlow and south Shropshire are being urged to apply for the latest round of Coronavirus support grants which have gone live.

Shropshire Council has been given almost £7 million to be made available for businesses who have been forced to close during the second lockdown period, lasting until Wednesday, December 2.

The council has received £6.75 million funding from the government to hand out local restrictions support grants to local firms, which will be based on rateable value.

Businesses that can apply are those who have had to close during this 28-day lockdown period, including non-essential retail, leisure, personal care, entertainment, sports facilities and hospitality.

There are three levels of grants depending on the rateable value of the business. Those with a rateable value under £15,000 can apply for £1,334; those between £15,000 and £51,000 can apply for £2,000; and those with a rateable value over £51,000 can apply for £3,000.