OMICRON-hit hospitality and leisure businesses are set to get a financial boost as a new grant scheme is rolled out.

In order to aid the firms that have been hit hardest by the wave of the Omicron variant, Test Valley Borough Council has now rolled out a new government grant scheme.

Pubs and restaurants that faced a "tidal wave of cancellations" in the run up to Christmas due to spiralling covid cases, in what would normally be their busiest period will now be able to benefit from the scheme.

Businesses across the borough can now claim the one-off Omicron Hospitality and Leisure Grant of up to £6,000 by applying before March 18.

Finance portfolio holder, councillor Maureen Flood, said: “These businesses were already reeling from previous lockdowns, so the impact of spiralling omicron cases on trade during the busy festive period, was a devastating blow.

“I would urge every eligible business to apply. And if you are not sure if you’re eligible, then please visit our website to check. Our teams are on hand to process applications as quickly as possible.”

The council will also be releasing information about an Additional Restrictions Grant in the coming weeks, aimed at providing further assistance to affected businesses.