Major events funding announced

The local authority’s major events strategic fund is now open for applications, on a competitive basis, for major events that take place in or wish to relocate to the region.
And funding worth £155,000 has already been ring-fenced for Spring Fling, Big Burns Supper and Dumfries and Galloway Arts Festival, while the council is also investing £45,000 in the 2016 Tour of Britain and £32,500 in the Wigtown Book Festival.
Councillor Colin Smyth, who is the council’s events champion, said: “We recently announced that major events are worth in excess of £10 million of net additional economic value to the region each year, and add greatly to our quality of life.
“That’s why our council is to continue to invest in a range of events projects next year, through a mixture of confirmed funding to a range of our most significant ‘signature’ events and on a competitive basis via our strategic fund.
“Our sustained, targeted investment in the best events projects can ensure many more memorable events in the future and opportunities for local businesses to benefit from the visitors encouraged to visit our region.”
Meanwhile, VisitScotland regional director Paula McDonald has credited the extensive range of regional festivals and events as a ‘fantastic tourism asset’.
She added: “Continued investment in the region’s vibrant programme of diverse, engaging events and festivals is absolutely vital – not only to the continued success of our tourism industry but to the strength of our local economy.”