VILLAGE shopkeepers in the Ribble Valley could be in line for a Government cash handout to improve their businesses.

The Rural Development Commission has launched a new scheme to provide shops in Lancashire and Cheshire with advice and assistance to keep them successful.

The commission is researching a proposed village shop grant scheme, which is being piloted in the south of England.

The scheme, which could be put into operation nationally, tries to ensure the viability of village shops, preventing closures and ensuring that rural communities have continued access to essential goods and services. The commission will be studying a survey which will include the Ribble Valley area, to compile a list of all the shops in small settlements.

It is then hoped to identify those shops which might benefit from a capital injection to improve their commercial success.

Any shopkeeper who would like to be included in the scheme should contact Gordon Stewart, who will be conducting the survey, on 01229 837333 as soon as possible.

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