BUSINESSES across the city are getting the chance to rebuild their livelihoods with £2,000 aid after attacks by looters and thugs.

The Birmingham Mail Fightback Fund was set up to help small, independent businesses get back on their feet after the riots last month.

Applications were accepted until August 30 from businesses who had suffered loss of stock and property damage.

The Carphone Warehouse and sister company Best Buy donated £10,000 to the fund.

Charles Dunstone, who founded the store, said: “Having once struggled to get a business up and running myself, I know the challenges that small businesses face.

“Ultimately, we have the resources to repair the damage to our own shops, but many small businesses do not.

“It’s fantastic to see this fightback fund benefitting such key local community businesses and helping them on their way.”

Carphone Warehouse stores throughout the country were damaged in the riots.

The company gave the money to help clean up the streets and help traders get back in business. Financial help was available to help repair broken windows and doors, install CCTV or new security, and buy in replacement stock.