A hyperlocal news website says its future has been secured for the next six months after winning a $5,000 grant from Google.

The Salford Star has received the cash from the technology firm’s relief fund, aimed at helping news titles through the coronavirus crisis.

Google says more than 100 British publishers have won grants from the fund, but has so far officially announced only three recipients – Altrincham Today, Rochdale Online and Jersey radio station Channel 103.

HTFP has approached Google for a list of further UK recipients.

In a statement, the Star said: “This funding, together with regular donations from Mary Monson Solicitors and from an array of readers, means the Star will continue for at least six months.

“June has seen the 14th birthday of the Salford Star since the first print issue in 2006, and 15 years since the community centred publication was first conceived.”

Richard Gingras, vice-president of news at Google, told the Star: “Local news is a vital resource for keeping people and communities connected in the best of times.

“Today, it plays an even greater function in reporting on local lockdowns or shelter at home orders, school and park closures, and data about how COVID-19 is affecting daily life.

“But that role is being challenged as the news industry deals with job cuts, furloughs and cutbacks as a result of the economic downturn prompted by COVID-19.”

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