WINCHESTER businesses hit by flooding are set to be helped by local and national government grants.

The city council was told yesterday (THURS) that the Government is sending £40,000 to the Winchester district to help the recovery of firms affected.

Last week the city council announced it was setting aside £100,000 for remedial work, with Hambledon the likeliest place for the work.

Cllr Rob Humby, deputy leader at the city council, told Council: “Some business have been hard hit, business and shops. Some have closed down and others have had stock damage. A few have been unable to trade because local roads are impassable.”

A second round of Government help is expected next month, said Cllr Humby.

He said business would be able to claim compensation for the cost of the clean-up, materials and exceptional costs such as drying equipment.

Businesses will be able to claim 100 per cent business rate relief for three months.

City council officers are currently drawing up a database of firms affected by the flooding.

The Council heard that not for profit groups such as parish or village halls should also be able to claim for help.

Cllr Tony Coates, who represents Hambledon, said there was a pub and two shops in the village.

“These premises have not been flooded, because of people’s efforts but have suffered a severe loss of business.”

Cllr Humby said; “We will be doing everything we can to support business across the district.”