Taunton has a lively, packed programme of arts and cultural events planned this Summer. We’ll have festivals and entertainment of all types, with music, dance, street performance and markets virtually every weekend.

For an overview of what’s planned, including Somerfest, Somerset Rocks, Taunton Live, the Taunton Flower Show, sporting events and carnivals go to www.visitsomerset/taunton

As well as being fun for residents and visitors, events raise the profile of Taunton as a visitor destination, and in turn boost the local economy through increased spend in businesses.

If you are considering arranging an event, particularly on one of the town’s outdoor spaces, you can seek help from the Economic Development team.

It has a plethora of support available to event organisers including:

• the use of high quality open spaces within Taunton town centre – available to charities and not for profit organisations at no cost;

• marketing and promotional opportunities through printed media and the Council’s websites;

• box office facilities and support for ticket sales online and through the Taunton Visitor Centre;

• use of the Council’s Town Centre Events License for major and innovative events;

• expert advice on event organisation and marketing;

• provision of support for events from the Deane DLO team ranging from transport management planning, fencing, and cleansing.

The Council also has grant funding available to assist local organisations in providing high quality arts and cultural events. The Arts and Events Grant Scheme is now open and applications are invited until 29th April.

For further information on this and any of the above services contact the Events Team at ecdev@tauntondeane.gov.uk or tel. 01823 356489.

Even if you are not planning an event you can show your support for those who are by getting out and about and enjoying what’s on offer.

Cllr Mark Edwards, Executive Councillor for Business Development at Taunton Deane Borough Council.