MUSIC fans will be delighted to hear that the 2021 Watchet Festival is aiming to go ahead after a funding boost.
The event, run by the Watchet Live Community Interest Company (CIC) has received £75,000 from the Cultural Recovery Fund, which aims to help events through the coronavirus pandemic.
And organisers say the award paves the way towards staging this year’s Watchet Music Festival, returning after last year’s cancelled event, over the August Bank Holiday.
The grant provides the festival with a lifeline to offset any unforeseen Covid-related costs, or the possibility that a reduced capacity event may lead to a shortfall in ticket income, said Mark bale, from Watchet CIC.
“All of us involved with Watchet LIVE are honoured to be awarded this grant," he said.
"The past 12 months has created so much uncertainty for the future of our community events, so this secures the future of Watchet Festival for 2021 and into the years ahead.
"As we have never had the need to apply or rely on funding in the past, being awarded this grant shows to us that the wider performing arts community recognise and have faith in what Watchet LIVE CIC means to the West Somerset area.
"Restrictions permitting, we cannot wait to welcome friends from near and far back to our award-winning festival this August Bank Holiday weekend.”
GOOD TIMES: Melanie C at Watchet Music Festival in 2018
The money will also provide critical assurance for festival suppliers - many of whom are independent local businesses - and artists alike, that the event is viable for the future, he added.
Watchet Live is currently working with four other Somerset festivals to produce a Covid-based event safety plan.
"We are closely working with and seeking advice from the local authority on guidance going forward, following the Government road map recovery plan," said a spokesperson.
"This award also safeguards the future of all the other community events organised by Watchet LIVE CIC."
Tickets go back on sale on May 1. Visit www.watchetfestival.co.uk for details.
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