GRATEFUL business owners have been showing off their latest upgrades after receiving grants to five them a boost post-coronavirus.

Three businesses have taken full advantage of Essex County Council’s business adaptation grant as part of a scheme to help aid Covid-19 recovery.

The funding has now helped them to maintain some income during the pandemic and to get ready for when lockdown rules are relaxed.

One business to benefit was coffee shop Table, in Earls Colne, whose owners said the extra money had made all the difference.

Gazette: Table, in Earls ColneTable, in Earls Colne

Co-owner of Table, Ella Martin, said: “We used the grant to buy bright yellow tables and chairs for outdoor seating, a protection screen for the counter area and a bespoke Perspex screen for our main doorway.

“It has a takeaway hatch for when we are open and was made by a local firm and looks fantastic.”

Another to benefit was Wivenhoe-based fitness instructor and gym owner, Christian Tambara, known as Joe, who has used the grant to help move his business Microgym online.

During lockdown, Joe decided to offer online personal training sessions, so he needed to invest in a new camera lens and microphone and set up an online payment system.

He said: “Not only have I been able to adapt sessions for existing clients, but I’ve also gained clients from across the county and beyond that I’d not been able to reach before - I’m really happy about that.”

Gazette: Joe, of MicroGymJoe, of MicroGym

White Dragon Archery in Bures has used the grant to improve its services for customers outdoors.

Mark Bloom, who owns the activity centre for archery and bushcraft experiences, said: “The application process was easy and the grant came through quickly.

“I used it to buy an outdoor shelter and a generator so we have a covered area when the weather is unkind and can provide hot drinks.

“These were items on my wish list to improve our business offering, but the grant has allowed me to put them in place sooner than anticipated.” Businesses should apply directly through their local council for the Essex business adaptation grant.

For more information, visit www.essex.gov.uk/financial-support-for-your-business/apply-for-a-grant.