THE clock is ticking towards the closure date for applications to the Basildon Mayor's 'Keep The Lights On Fund'.

The fund was set up to raise cash to those people who have casual jobs, largeley in the hospitality sector, who were unable to work over Christmas which is usually their most profitable time of the year.

More than £35,000 was raised in the appeal launched by mayor Cllr David Burton-Sampson.

Those who qualify for help are being invited to apply for funds but the closing date is this coming Thursday (25 February).

The council says: "We now invite and encourage applications for a 'Keep The Lights On' payment from Basildon residents who are...

• casual workers employed within the borough hospitality industry (bars, pubs, cafes, clubs and restaurants etc.)

• and who did not receive the wages and tips they would normally earn over the festive period due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Make sure to include all the supporting evidence asked for when completing your online application. Not giving us all of the correct information causes delays. Failure to provide the supporting evidence asked for will result in your application being rejected."

You can apply via this link.