A HARWICH pub is having its facilities revamped thanks to the help of a business scheme.

The New Bell Inn, on Outpart Eastward, successful applied for funding from Tendring Council's Harwich and Dovercourt Bay Business Grant Scheme.

The grant, of £1,605, will match-fund the refurbishment of the toilets at the pub.

Pamela Walsh, owner of the New Bell Inn, said: “We are ecstatic to finally be having our toilets refurbished.

“Thanks to the help of Tendring Council, which has contributed half the cost towards the renovation works, we will finally have a beautiful bathroom for all.”

The grant scheme is supporting independent businesses within the Harwich and Dovercourt town centre areas to carry out improvement works, with the offer of match-funding from £100 to £2,000.

In total £20,000 is available, and the money is primarily being targeted in both towns to help mark the 400th anniversary of the sailing of the Mayflower, the Harwich ship which carried the Pilgrims to America in 1620.

Mary Newton, Tendring Council's cabinet member for business and economic growth, encouraged other eligible businesses to apply to the grant scheme.

“This support is there to help independent businesses in these two towns to make improvements; and grants are really being given out at a pace now,” Mrs Newton said.

“If you want to freshen up your store front, make your business sparkle with new windows, or like the New Bell Inn improve the customer facilities, look at applying for a grant.”

For more information about the grants scheme visit tendringdc.gov.uk.