BOSSES of small businesses across Trafford are being reminded they could be missing out on rate relief worth £2,000 over the next two years.

In an effort to track them down, council officials visited businesses in Stretford Mall on Thursday(July 9), to advise them of the scheme and encourage them to sign up

The scheme in town centres aims to get all eligible occupied retail premises with a rateable value of £50,000 or less to sign up for business rate relief of £1,000 a year for both 2014/15 and 2015/16 financial years.

The eligibility criteria applies to premises, which are wholly or mainly being used as shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs.

The relief is not available for financial services including banks, building societies and betting shops or for medical services including vets, dentists, doctors, or professional services including. solicitors, accountants, financial advisors, or services which include estate agents, letting agents and employment agencies.

Executive Cllr Patrick Myers said: "The council is committed to supporting all its local high street businesses.

"Trafford has excellent town centres offering local people and visitors a good choice of shopping opportunities and this is something we continue to build on.

"Making sure all eligible businesses take advantage of this rate relief is another way of ensuring the future of our high streets as shopping destinations."

Any businesses wanting more information or to clarify eligibility for relief should contact the council's business rates department by telephoning 0161 912 2346 or via email business.rates@trafford.gov.uk for free advice and guidance . Alternatively you can apply online at www.trafford.gov.uk/retailrelief.