The council says more than £1 million will be awarded to small businesses in the district.

The St Albans District Council is to distribute the money from another Government grant and is asking struggling businesses that might be eligible to apply.

The council said it has already given out £23 million to more than 1500 businesses in the area, including some pubs, restaurants and shops.

The Local Authority Discretionary Grants Fund from the Government is offering to help owners with primarily property costs.

The financial aid is non-repayable and is intended to help firms survive throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

But to be eligible for the grant a business must not have received cash from the Government's other Covid-related schemes, such as the Small Business and the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Funds.

Among the groups, the council is looking to give grants to regular market traders, bed and breakfast establishments, charities and firms that share offices.

The council also said independent businesses which are considered important to making the district a vibrant place to live and work may also apply.

Councillor Mandy McNeil responsible for business, tourism and culture said: "We urge small businesses in the district to take a look at the application form to see if they're eligible and, if so, to apply.

"We estimate we will have around £1.25 million to distribute to small companies to help them get through this extremely challenging emergency.

"We anticipate that there will be more demand than we have funds available and we will seek to distribute the funds as equitably as possible."

Applications for the grant should be made to https://stalbans.force.com/