A NEW hotline is now available to help support businesses in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Launched by Test Valley Borough Council, the service is available for businesses across the borough who would like help and guidance, as well as those who are thinking of starting up a new company.

The council has employed Enterprise South to run the service for the next six months from July, with a hotline available and an email address that can be contacted.

This new service is in addition to the authority’s Business Incentive Grants, Independent Retailer Grants and the Andover Skills Training Fund.

Economic development and tourism portfolio holder, councillor David Drew, said: “Test Valley Borough Council has a proud record for its business support service, especially working with new and small businesses, which has been recognised by the Federation of Small Businesses over many years.

“This new service complements the practical help the council will continue to offer, as well as support from other agencies. However, it will go further by providing a helping hand to those considering self-employment in the coming months as the economic impact of the pandemic runs its course.”

Businesses can contact the helpline via 0844 225 3130 or email info@enterprisesouth.co.uk