THE level of grant funding available to Hambleton businesses should be increased, council chiefs have agreed.

And a review of the scheme - which enables firms to employ consultancy services - will take place next year.

Members of Hambleton District Council's economic development sub-committee agreed that the level of aid offered under the Business Consultancy Grant scheme be increased to £500.

The scheme, introduced four years ago, is targeted at businesses with growth potential in marketing, tourism and agricultural diversification projects. It allows those firms to use approved consultancy services to further their growth.

The grant will also be available to Business Solutions, Bedale, the former Hambleton and Richmondshire Enterprise Agency which is now offering a more comprehensive range of advisory services to new and existing businesses.

For more details on the scheme, contact Paul Whitaker on (01609) 767204