Business owners urged to grow with Coastal funding

But time is running out to apply for the advice and also a share of the funding, which is already helping some South Ribble businesses to grow.

The grants are part of the South Ribble Borough Council MERE project under the Coastal Communities Fund, and any business within the western parishes – Hutton, Longton, Little Hoole, Much Hoole, Howick and Priory - is eligible to apply.

Interior designer Sarah Pickard, 32, of Longton-based Pickard Design was the first to receive one of the match-funded grants in March and earmarked the £500 – the maximum amount - to help pay course fees for a professional qualification.

In addition Sarah, like all successful applicants, was eligible for free business support and advice from Orvia and met with an advisor over a period of three months to develop a marketing strategy.

She said: “I’ve really benefitted from the support from Orvia. It’s a really good programme, very practical, and helped me focus my attention on my business goals and clarified many aspects of the business.”

Coun Phil Smith said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for businesses to take advantage of free advice and support and a financial boost that could help take their business to the next level.