MANUFACTURING and engineering firms hit by the collapse of MG Rover are being offered financial support.

Industry experts at Business Link Kent, the advice agency based at Kings Hill, West Malling, are trying to contact component suppliers across the county. Up to 20 are thought to be affected.

Innovation and technology manager Simon Warran-Smith heads a team that is helping suppliers to MG River and its sister company Powertrain, tap into government funds.

Phase one of the support package includes up to five days of intensive support with a specialist adviser to develop an action plan to drive the company forward and seek new products and markets.

After an action plan has been agreed, firms with at least 15 per cent of their business with MG Rover will be eligible for wage subsidies for directly affected employees.

Up to £50 per day, for up to six weeks, is available for each affected employee, who must also be available for off-the-job training throughout the support period.

"We have already identified companies in the county which were key suppliers to MG Rover and Powertrain,” said Mr Warran-Smith. "They qualify for substantial financial support and we are already working closely with them.

"We are also keen to help other qualifying manufacturing and engineering companies in the county which have been affected by the problems at MG Rover."

Before joining BLK, Mr Warran-Smith spent 21 years working in the automotive industry specialising in product development.

Firms that may be eligible for support should ring 08457 226655, email info@businesslinkkent.com, or visit www.businesslinkkent.com.