Three art and culture projects in Sidmouth have received grants from the Creative East Devon Fund.

The grant scheme is part of East Devon District Council's Cultural Strategy, and the funding aims to support creative projects that also improve people’s lives in various ways; for example, by tackling environmental/social/economic issues or providing activities for young people.

The total funding amounted to £31,869, with 14 projects receiving grants ranging from £3,000 to £800.

Sidmouth Coastal Community Hub CIC has been awarded £3,000 for its Peace Garden Mural Project at Dissenters Hall. The creation of the mural will involve 20 groups who use the hall, and once in place it will be visible from Sidmouth High Street to residents and visitors.

Another £3,000 grant has been awarded to Sidmouth School of Art for the 'Sidmouth On Sea – Save Our Seas' element of the Winter Lights Festival, taking place from  Friday, February 9 until Saturday 17. Light installations made from recycled materials will be on display at the Sensory Garden, Riverside Walkway, The Ham and Sidmouth Wallspace.

The 2024 Sidmouth International Jazz Festival has received £2,970 to fund free access to a range of live music workshops including a Rhythm & African Drum Workshop and Gospel Choir Workshop. This year's festival will take place from Thursday, May 23 until Monday 27.

Councillor Nick Hookway, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Leisure, Tourism and Sport said: "The Creative East Devon Fund is a new initiative which was introduced as part of our wider East Devon Cultural Strategy. We are delighted to support these 14 new creative initiatives across East Devon. The funded projects will not only enrich the cultural lives of residents but also attract visitors to the area.

"We encourage culture organisations to look out for the next funding round this year and bring more East Devon creative projects to fruition.

"A second round of funding will open in April for longer term projects due to be completed by March 2025. For application details, please sign up to the ACED newsletter."