Businesses suffering losses from the foot and mouth outbreak in Malvern will be able to claim up to 100 per cent rate relief.

Malvern Hills District Council agreed this week to grant hardship relief to small firms with a rateable value of up to £12,000 that are seriously affected by the crisis.

The government has agreed to contribute between 75 per cent and 95 per cent of the relief granted with the council making up the rest for a period of three months from April 1.

No relief has been offered to businesses with a rateable value higher than £12,000.

Firms need to apply for the grant in writing and must prove loss of trade by providing evidence such as accounts or VAT returns.

Alan Davies, head of revenue services, said these measures will give some help to businesses in the district which are badly affected by foot and mouth disease.