Rutland County Council is writing to all businesses in the county advising them to seek advice and guidance from the Government as the deadline for Britain's departure from the European Union draws near.

The local authority is also publishing a series of information videos in which local business owners share their top tips on preparing for Brexit.

The first of these has been filmed with Oakham-based Bat and Bottle Wine Merchants and can be viewed online at www.rutland.gov.uk/brexit.

Emma Robson, a Director at Bat and Bottle, said: "We sell directly to the public, as well as to restaurants around the UK. We do all this ourselves and have 20 years of experience importing Italian wine.

"I can't emphasise enough – businesses need to make the time to prepare for Brexit.

"Make sure you know things like your Commodity Codes and Procedure Codes. Most importantly, just keep looking at the government website. You'll find everything there.

"Also, keep talking to your suppliers, keep talking to your shippers, even to your competitors and we will get through this together."

Coun Oliver Hemsley, Leader of Rutland County Council, said: "It's really important that everyone is ready for Brexit.

"If you're a business owner, you may need to prepare for changes that affect your day-to-day operations, so you need to take time to familiarise yourself with all the information provided by the government for your business sector.

"We're working with a number of local businesses to bring their first-hand experience to the fore, so that others can benefit and know what steps to take.

"If you haven't made any preparations yet, it's vital you start now and make the most of the advice and guidance that's available."

The UK is due to leave the EU on 31 October and any business that trades goods or services with the EU needs to get ready.

Businesses should take action and prepare if they:

Import goods from the EU

Export animals or animal products

Move goods between Ireland and Northern Ireland

Find out how your business should prepare for Brexit and sign up to government alerts by clicking the red button below.

Rutland County Council also provides support for businesses of all sizes through its Economic Development Team. Find out more at www.rutland.gov.uk/business.