SMALL businesses in Nantwich are being urged to take advantage of Government funded rate relief.

Borough council leaders are keen to ensure that all local firms are aware of any financial help available and that applications are easy to make.

So far this financial year, 700 small business properties have received an average of £673 per approved application - a total of £469,000.

The Small Businesses Scheme is a mandatory rate relief scheme determined by Government, with no discretionary element.

Any ratepayers, who trade from just one property with a rateable value of less than £10,000, could be eligible.

Council leader Brian Silvester said: "I am sure that this assistance has been very helpful to all the businesses concerned.

"It is difficult to say how many would be eligible in the Crewe and Nantwich borough as it's not just a case of saying everyone with an RV below £10,000 would qualify.

"But to ensure everyone is aware of their possible entitlement, the scheme is included on the information leaflet sent out with every initial bill.

"Application forms are also included with bills, where staff feel that payers may be eligible."

The council's portfolio holder for economic development David Brickhill added: "We currently have 697 properties where relief is given, with a further 45 not paying the supplement.

"This compares favourably with other Cheshire authorities, with only Chester and Macclesfield having more cases.

"I would encourage all small businesses with a low rateable value to apply."

Details and application forms are also available on the council website or from Jean Evans on 01270 537168.