Tourism, Arts & Events Grants

Event organisers and artists groups from 16 different projects were presented with a total of £10,000 from Dover District Council at a special ceremony at the Pines Calyx at the Pines Garden in St Margaret's Bay yesterday (Monday 22 May).

The grant scheme is awarded by Dover District Council to support arts activities and special events in the area. A wide range of groups and projects were supported with grants for the year ahead, ranging from the Dover Sea Sports Development Trust for Dover Regatta, to the Deal Festival of Music and the Arts for the Deal Festival 2006, and the Becker Ensemble for concerts in Sandwich.

The Pines Calyx is a new healthy and sustainable training and conference centre. When complete in summer 2006 it is set to be one of the most sustainable and energy efficient new commercial buildings in Europe. Features include load-bearing rammed chalk walks created from the indigenous chalk landscape. The Pines Calyx is run and managed by the St Margaret's Bay Trust. Any surplus revenue from booking receipts is applied to the Trust's ongoing environmental and community based initiatives.

Cllr Mrs Sue Nicholas, DDC Cabinet Member for Community said: 'We are very pleased to be able to present these grants and the Council values the work carried out by all events organisers and arts practitioners, which enhances the quality of life for all residents and visitors.'