Sister newspapers which offered free advertising for independent businesses have launched a further innovation to help such firms through the coronavirus crisis.

Newsquest Cumbria is offering companies the opportunity to have a free listing in its new ‘Cumbria is open for business’ guide.

The guide aims to raise awareness of businesses which are reopening or have remained open during the pandemic.

In March, the Carlisle News & Star and South Cumbria daily The Mail offered independents free ads after the COVID-19 outbreak, along with weekly titles the Cumberland News, Westmorland Gazette, Whitehaven News, Workington Times & Star and the Hexham Courant.

Vanessa Sims, regional group editor said: “The past 10 weeks have completely changed the way we think, operate and shop as a nation.

“As we move towards normality, we need to support our communities more than ever by shopping local. But before shoppers can do that, they need to know what businesses are open and Newsquest Cumbria has the perfect solution.

“Our definitive ‘Cumbria is open for business’ guide will be an A to Z of listings, as well as stories about independent and family-run businesses going above and beyond to offer great service. Act today to make sure your business is included.”