THE GOVERNMENT is holding workshops to show Hampshire's business community how to get a slice of the £23m it is giving out in grants in the south-east this year.

A team from the Department for environment, Food and Rural Affairs will hold a workshop at West Sussex's Rogate Village Hall on November 11. Professional advice will be on offer to farmers, landowners, bankers, consultants, accountants, advisers and land agents.

The department has £23m to distribute through schemes designed to support environmental stewardship and rural development.

The workshop will include advice on how and when to apply for grants and will hear how money can be available for leaving corn stubble on fields over the winter or restoring hedges. Later, the session will focus on grants available to projects which stimulate the rural economy.

The event costs £12 including a locally sourced lunch. Call 0118 939 2347.