THE changes we have all had to make to our lives over the past few months have been significant but as we get back to normal there is one thing we can all do together – help support local businesses.

Since lockdown came in to place, local businesses have worked hard to adapt, overcome and survive in ways that none of us thought possible and their ingenuity, revisions to the way they work and their compassion for everyone around them has been admirable.

Now it is time for your local paper to help in every way we possible can to ensure that we help the businesses in our towns and villages.

Love Local is a new campaign across the Ayrshire Weekly Press newspapers and websites to ensure that every single business has a voice, whether it is through a free listing, a business profile or a spotlight on the selfless work carried out. Over the next few weeks we will be asking for your help to ensure we cover all the bases. Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for details.

South Ayrshire Council leader Peter Henderson said: “Since the end of March, we have distributed £21.7 million in business support grants.

“Through the council, businesses are also receiving non-domestic rates relief to help them recover.

“We also administered the Newly Self-employed Hardship Fund, which allowed businesses to apply for a one-off £2,000 grant. The tourism sector is one of the hardest to be hit, so we have also been helping accommodation providers through the B&B Hardship Fund.

“We are encouraging people back into our high streets by reopening public toilets, and helping shops to reopen safely. I would remind shoppers to abide by government laws, especially around the wearing of face masks.

“The council demonstrated innovation and support for business and locals during every stage of the pandemic, and will continue to do so.”

Ayrshire love local business - free business listing

Send us your details for your FREE business listing to be included in our Ayrshire love local business supplement in association with Scotland's Towns Partnership featuring across titles: Ardrossan & Saltcoats Herald, Ayr Advertiser, Troon Times, Carrick Herald, Irvine Times, Cumnock Chronicle and Largs & Millport Weekly News.

You can send us your details HERE. 

Ayrshire love local business - business profiles

Send us your details for your business profile to be included in our Ayrshire love local business supplement in association with Scotland's Towns Partnership featuring across titles: Ardrossan & Saltcoats Herald, Ayr Advertiser, Troon Times, Carrick Herald, Irvine Times, Cumnock Chronicle and Largs & Millport Weekly News.

You can send us your details HERE.