A COUNCIL has received an award for its efforts to help small businesses during the economic downturn.

Gravesham Council is one of five local authorities in the south east to be given the Federation of Small Businesses in Kent and Medway’s Small Business Friendly Award. The award recognises the council’s initiative to provide free weekend parking in the town centre to encourage shoppers to the area, as well as its Shop Smart scheme to promote local retailers.

Council leader Councillor Mike Snelling said: "The council was delighted to accept this award, particularly as it was decided by the very people in local industry we are here to represent and support.”