BOURNEMOUTH council has awarded £19,000 to the Coastal Business Improvement District (BID) through its Recession Fund.

The fund, introduced by the council to help ease the burden of the economic downturn in 2008, looks to grow local business talent, support trade organisations and encourage tourism in the town.

The investment aims to create more income for businesses and support jobs, as well as involving Bournemouth residents through community events.

Bournemouth council leader, Cllr John Beesley, said: “We know that in the current economic climate, more people are relying on our services and more businesses turning to us for advice. That is why we set aside this funding to provide additional support. We will continue to provide direct help where we can and also support our communities so that they can help themselves through these difficult times.”

The money for the Coastal BID will help fund events this year including the P1 Power Boating and Jet Skiing event, Westbourne’s style event and a Shake and Stir event in Southbourne.