Grants of up to £15,000 are now available for small rural businesses in Oxfordshire whose finances have been badly affected by foot and mouth.

The money is for temporary relief from severe cash-flow difficulties and to encourage activity likely to return the business to profit within 12 months.

As well as the cash, applicants will be offered further support from Business Link advisers.

The grants will be awarded through Business Link for Milton Keynes, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

Chairman Alex Pratt said: "This is good news for businesses in Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. While the number of foot and mouth cases was thankfully small in this region, the virtual closure of the countryside has led to serious hardship for many rural businesses, who could face ruin.

"This new money from the Government is a lifeline and we would encourage any rural business with less than 50 employees to apply."

The money can be used to seek new markets, help with loan interest, training or investment to aid diversification. Applications must be in by the end of July. For details, call 0854 606 4466