MORE than £220,000 in grants for Farnworth and Little Hulton businesses will be up for grabs tonight.

The 'Christmas bonus' to companies ranging from the corner shop to major employer totals £227,000 in grant aid.

An informal event tonight will allow companies to learn more about the opportunities which exist.

During the past 12 months more than 70 jobs have been created and 500 more safeguarded in the areas. The Economy Team of the Little Hulton and Farnworth Partnership has distributed £913,000 in grants and private sector funding to help regenerate employment and there is still £227,000 available.

Guy Darragh of the Economy Team, said: "Business can be hard at the best of times but the finance we have been able to access has helped give firms the foundations on which to survive, develop and prosper.

"The benefits are clear -- new jobs are emerging, old jobs are being secured and that is great news for the whole of the Partnership area.

"We have already helped around 80 businesses through a variety of schemes including expansion, security, environmental improvements and wage subsidy, and we urge companies to contact us to see how we can support their efforts."

The event takes place tonight at Access to the Arts on the junction of Manchester Road East and Cleggs Lane, Little Hulton, from 3.30pm to 7.30pm.

Further information is from Guy Darragh on 01204 336221.