DUDLEY borough councillor Paul Brothwood has called on entrepreneurs to take advantage of a cash fund for people planning to set up shop.

Around £16,000 per council ward is available for people who are considering bringing a vacant shop back to life.

The money has been provided through the Empty Shop Grant High Street Innovation Fund which is designed to help revitalise high streets in the region.

By bringing vacant shops back into use, it's believed it will help bring much needed jobs and investment into the area.

The money is available via Dudley Council’s community forums which decide how the cash will be allocated.

Cllr Brothwood said: "I urge people to come forward and make use of this public money.

"The funding could also act as a catalyst for further investment to be ploughed into the area, which would in turn generate jobs and further opportunities.

"The community forum also has additional funds available to help local projects and good causes. It's important that people seize upon this.”