Chancellor Rishi Sunak has awarded funding to an East Lothian project created to improve online community connectivity as part of the UK Government’s Community Renewal Fund.

SOLE Digital Community Platform was awarded £437,235 to support independent local businesses integrate with their wider online communities.

The Community Renewal Fund was established to support people and communities most in need across the UK through projects seeking to invest in local communities or offer skills or support to improve job opportunities.

Scottish Conservative MSP for South Scotland region, Craig Hoy, said: “This award from Rishi Sunak’s budget will be a great boost for the local economy of East Lothian.

“The funding means SOLE can continue to engage with East Lothian’s online digital community and support local independent businesses build their customer base.

“The Chancellor’s financial support from the Community Renewal Fund demonstrates the benefits that East Lothian receives from being part of the UK.”