An independent coffee shop and record shop in Bury town centre has been awarded money to help upgrade the business.

Wax and Beans on Market Street, which is owned by partners Ben Soothill and Louise Jackson, will receive a share of a £220,000 grant programme from bank holding firm American Express.

They plan on using the money to make upgrades to the shop's kitchen and extend the outdoor dining area.

Louise said: “Winning this grant is a huge privilege and will allow us to make the essential improvements needed to ensure Wax and Beans remains a community hub.

READ MORE: Family celebrate 30 years in nursery business with visit from special characters

“We take pride in offering our customers a place to relax and socialise over good food and music, and this grant enables us to continue in this mission.”

The popular shop hosts regular music events, album signings and listening parties alongside serving up fresh food and snacks.  

Ben Soothill and Louise Jackson, co-owners at Wax and BeansBen Soothill and Louise Jackson, co-owners at Wax and Beans (Image: supplied) Five other independent establishments in Greater Manchester have also been awarded a share of the funding as part of the American Express Backing International Small Restaurants grant programme.

They include The Baum in Rochdale, Cibus Pizza in Manchester, The Italian in Stockport, JS On the Corner in Manchester and MOST Bakery in Altrincham.

Dan Edelman, general manager of UK merchant services at American Express, said: “We’re delighted to once again support some of the country’s independently owned restaurants, and are particularly proud to have expanded the grant programme to Greater Manchester.

READ MORE: Popular lifestyle brand to open second store in Bury town centre

“These venues bring vibrancy to our high streets and local communities and American Express remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting them to thrive.”

Grant recipients will each use the £11,000 funding to help them continue to thrive, through making essential upgrades to their venues from kitchen operations and improved marketing to enhancing the dining experience.

Executive director of the IDA Foundation, David Downey, added: “We are thrilled to announce the third cohort of restaurants selected for the Backing International Small Restaurants programme.

“This year, we’ve expanded our reach to nine cities globally through the continued generosity of American Express.

"We are proud to empower these extraordinary restaurants to thrive and strengthen the fabric of their neighbourhoods.”