Sidmouth FolkWeek joy at �5k grant from county
A GRANT of �5,000 has been given to Sidmouth FolkWeek by Devon County Council in recognition of its boost to the local economy.
A GRANT of �5,000 has been given to Sidmouth FolkWeek by Devon County Council in recognition of its boost to the local economy.
The cash, which comes from the county council's cultural budget, will help to enhance festival entertainment around the main venues, particularly the Hub at the Ham and Port Royal, and Blackmore Gardens.
John Braithwaite, festival director, said: "We know that the festival attracts visitors from all over the south west and further afield, and adds more than �1.5 million to the Devon economy.
"With DCC support, we can now add to the great festive atmosphere and encourage more people to visit the town and attend events."
Joan Crump, artistic director, said: "The grant will also allow Sidmouth FolkWeek to strengthen its re-launched and re-developed programme for young people, now called 'Folk-a-Cola', as part of the festival programme for youth and families.
"As a result, the festival will see its strongest programme of youth activity for several years, including music, dance, song and theatre workshops and events."
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Mr Braithwaite added: "We are delighted that Devon County Council has, once again, recognised the importance of the Festival to the economy, and to the cultural and artistic life of the county."
The support from DCC, which has provided financial backing in the past to the festival, complements an ongoing commitment from Sidmouth Town Council and the launch of a new sponsorship programme to support the local business community's recognition of the importance of the annual event.
Stuart Hughes, Sidmouth Sidford county councillor, said: "I'm delighted that the county council has once again been able to support Sidmouth FolkWeek.
"It's very important in terms of culture and very important to Sidmouth and our local economy.
