SMALL manufacturing companies in Cornwall are being invited to apply for a 12-month 'break' from paying business rates as part of a new Cornwall Council scheme which is aimed at helping them to grow and take on more staff.

Under the Micro Business Incentive scheme up to 20 micro manufacturing businesses will each receive a 'grant' of up to £5,000 to offset the costs of paying business rates.

The £100,000 scheme, which is being funded by Cornwall Council, will be delivered by Cornwall Development Company.

Julian German, Cornwall Council's cabinet member for economy and culture, said: "Cornwall Council is committed to doing all that it can to support the private sector to create well paid, full time, permanent jobs. Incentivisation for micro manufacturing businesses is a great way to do this."

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.