SIXTY-five village and community halls and shops in the Cotswolds will be exempted from rates. 

The exemption was last until at least March 31 in 2020.

This will save communities a further £20,100 on top of the mandatory relief which was granted previously.

Leader of Cotswold District Council, Cllr Lynden Stowe determined the 65 renewal applications for discretionary rate relief for village halls across many parts of the Cotswolds.

Commenting on the decision, Cllr Stowe said: “It’s very important that the Council continues to provide rate relief to non-profit making assets such as village halls.

"These premises contribute to the rich tapestry of life in our District by providing a vast range of activities for young and old, and are essential for maintaining thriving communities.”

If any person responsible for a village hall has not applied for this discretionary rate relief so far, call the district council on 01285 623000.