THE hard-hit tourist industry in Ryedale could be in line for vital relief on business rates to help it recover from the foot and mouth crisis.

More than 2,000 information packs detailing the sort of help available to businesses have been issued by Ryedale District Council.

The packs also contain a form which can be used to apply for Business Rate Hardship Relief.

Under new Government rules, the council is allowed to offer a deal which could give businesses 100 per cent relief on the rates bill for up to three months from April 1. Most of the relief will be provided by the Government, though five per cent will come from Ryedale District Council's coffers. Tourist businesses with a rateable value of less than £12,000 a year will be eligible for rate relief if they can show the foot and mouth crisis has affected business turnover.

"If opening hours or staffing levels have had to be reduced or if there is any other evidence to show the business has suffered a drop in trade, the owner can apply for the relief," said a council spokesman.

The information packs also outline how businesses can apply to the District Valuation Officer in Leeds, before June 30, for a temporary reduction in their rateable value.

Coun Alan Farnaby, leader of Ryedale District Council, said: "Easter will be a particularly testing time for many local businesses. We want them to know that there is help available and that they are encouraged to apply for it if they can show that their business is suffering."

Steve Jacques, chairman of the Ryedale Tourism Association, said the rate relief offer was a vital lifeline for many traders.

"It is clear the tourist industry in Ryedale has been badly affected and this could help save many of them," he said.

"However I still think the Government needs to commit more money to promoting tourism in England."

Updated: 12:11 Monday, April 16, 2001