Companies facing financial difficulty due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak have been handed a financial boost.

A first wave of emergency funding totalling more than £3 million has been delivered by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council to more than 200 firms in the form of grants of either £10,000 or £25,00 depending on their circumstances.

The cash injection is part of central government plans to help soften the impact of the lockdown, which has seen many businesses close and workers furloughed.

It is estimated the borough has more than 1,500 businesses, including around 360 retail outlets, who are eligible for grants which can be applied for online.

Councillor Nicolas Heslop, leader of the Tonbridge and Malling authority, said: "These measures are a lifeline for businesses and households in our borough which have been hardest hit by the unprecedented measures that have been imposed to combat the spread of coronavirus.

"If more money is required to stop firms going out of business and people losing their jobs, I won't hesitate to demand more from the government.

"In the meantime I would urge anyone who needs help to get in touch and we will do everything we can to assist them through this incredibly challenging period."

Details of the measures being put in place to support local companies can be found on the council website. As well as grants, some eligible firms in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors have also been given a 12-month exemption from business rates.

Support is also available for households who may be struggling to pay their council tax during the lockdown period, including reductions to bills or deferment of payments.

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