A new High Street Fund has been launched by a group of UK companies and London Mayor Boris Johnson to help small businesses affected by the UK riots get back on their feet.
Businesses including Barclays, BP, Capita, Deloitte, Lloyds Banking Group, RBS and Santander have pledged more than £3m to the fund, while the Mayor has committed £500,000.

Small businesses which have suffered direct loss as a result of the riots, reported that loss to the police and have a police crime number are eligible to apply for grants from today.

The fund aims to target businesses with fewer than 10 employees, but may consider applications from bigger firms in exceptional circumstances.

It is hoped more companies and individuals will boost the fund further in order to help as many small businesses as possible.

A statement on the fund's website said: "Assistance will be targeted to those small businesses that need immediate help and do not have resources to cope. In the aftermath of the violence and looting, their priority is the immediate challenge of just staying in business long enough to rebuild. Initially, we will offer advice and funding through grants to help them bridge the gap.

"Our aim is to support local communities by ensuring that the people running and working in local shops and businesses are not forced to abandon the high street because of the riots."

Businesses that wish to apply for a grant can call 0800 093 5858 or visit www.thehighstreetfund.co.uk.