AN APPLE growing business is celebrating after it received a £35,000 grant to improve its productivity.

Cotswold Orchards, a family-run business near Broadway, applied for funding from the Worcestershire LEADing Rural Business Programme (LEADER) and has since hired two new seasonal members of staff.

When owner Nicholas Dunsby heard about LEADER funding he was quick to see an opportunity for his business.

The funding has allowed him to upgrade the 27-year-old apple grading machine with new kit which will double the current accuracy and grading capacity of his business operation.

Mr Dunsby said: "The investment in our new grading machine has made a significant impact on the efficiency of our production process. The accuracy and flexibility of the new grader has led to a major step forward in the consistency of our product."

The LEADER programme offers grants to support rural businesses and communities and is open for applications until Friday, December 2.

Councillor Ken Pollock, cabinet member for economy, skills and infrastructure said: "The current funding round is for micro or small enterprises, farmers, foresters, community groups and charities, with the aim of realizing an innovation or idea that will make a direct difference to the local rural economy.

"I would urge all businesses in this category to see if they can benefit."

For details visit worcestershire.gov.uk/leader or call 01905 843071.