FARMERS need to take advantage of Government grants to improve their business, a Wisbech agricultural accountant has urged.

Defra is now inviting applications for a second round of grants of up to �25,000 to help farmers and rural businesses buy new machinery or develop environmentally-friendly projects.

And specialist agricultural accountants Moore Thompson is making sure Fenland businesses know to apply.

“Those who missed out on the first round of grants are being given a second chance to apply for significant which will make a major difference to how they run their businesses,” said Andrew Heskin, a partner in the farming sector team.

“Farmers and rural businesses need every help they can get in the current economic climate, which is why they can’t afford to miss an opportunity such as this.”

The grants are part of the Rural Community Broadband Fund and the Farming and Forestry Improvement Scheme and total �40 million.

Grants of between �2,500 and �25,000 can be used to cover 40 per cent of the total cost of projects, with up to 50 per cent funding available for projects in upland areas.

Farming minister Jim Paice said: “This is good news for rural communities.

“We’re already hearing about the great benefits that our investment has brought to rural businesses and farms.”

The Farming and Forestry Improvement Scheme aims to support projects which save energy and reduce carbon emissions, improve soil quality and save and recycle water, among others.

It will go live on May 22 and close on July 17.