Preston businesses have been handed more than £30m in coronavirus aid payments

The figures come from the latest Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy report into how each local authority had processed the various schemes.

Preston was initially allocated £34,970,000 and has given out £30,110,000 with 2,525 grants.

Fylde was allocated £21,662,000 and has doled out £17,275,000 with 1,483 grants.

Wyre had £31,970,000 and has made 2,300 grants, having handed out £26,705,000 so far.

Lancaster was allocated £37,616,000 and has handed out £28,620,000 in 2,496 grants.

South Ribble had £20,888,000 and has given out £18,725,000 in 1,637 grants.

The Ribble Valley had £18,926,000 and has given out £17,045,000 in 1,520 grants.

Preston Coun Martyn Rawlinson, Cabinet member for resources and performance, said,“We all know there’s been a significant financial impact on many businesses, large and small, as a result of the Covid19 pandemic.

“Processing and administering the business support grants was a huge undertaking with officers working many hours including weekends to make the necessary checks and payments.

“While most have now been paid, final checks on a few applications are outstanding and we’re also trying to contact the remaining eligible business owners yet to apply.”

But the Federation of Small Businesses said many people had still received little or nothing.

Chris Manka said: “While the majority of small businesses have been supported by the Chancellor’s emergency measures, some have not.

“We need the Government to spell out how it will help the newly self-employed and company directors who have once again been overlooked.”