Businesses in Hull hit by the effects of coronavirus are being urged to apply for financial support before funding ends.

The Hull Business Discretionary Grant Fund has so far seen more than £2 million distributed to 368 businesses in the city.

And with the fund closing to new applications at midnight on Thursday 30 July, business-owners who have not yet applied are urged to act soon.

The fund is aimed at small businesses not eligible for the Government’s two business rates-related grants, including those in the creative sectors and self-employed businesses which rent space in order to deliver services, and businesses with rateable values under £51,000.

Councillor Daren Hale, deputy leader of Hull City Council, said: “The feedback we have had from businesses across Hull who have successfully applied for this funding has been overwhelmingly positive, with many saying they might not have been able to go on without it.

“Staff in the council’s business support teams have done an excellent job to make sure this funding is distributed quickly and efficiently to those businesses most in need.

“In particular, we are looking to help businesspeople in the city such as creatives and the self-employed, for example those who rent space to put on classes who might need support to keep their business alive.

“Any businesses which might be eligible should get their applications in to the council to make sure they are given the best chance to thrive both during and after the coronavirus pandemic."

Make an application or find out more details about which businesses are eligible here, or email enquiries to business.support@hullcc.gov.uk.