Salisbury pub 'over the moon' with Government support

The pub on Rampart Road has been given a total of £77,692 towards keeping their live events programme going through the Covid-19 pandemic.

The grant's been announced as part of the second tranche of support from the Government fund to support arts venues during the crisis.

Landlady at the Winchester Gate, Abi Blake, says they're 'utterly over the moon':

"It is the biggest vote of confidence we've ever received. It really makes us take stock that all the hard work we've put in to this is valued. We are here for culture and we are here to provide a platform for grass roots artists, whatever genre they might be. We're just absolutely thrilled!"

Some of the money for the Winnie Gate will be used to cover some debts built up during lockdown.

A crowdfunder to support the pub was launched earlier this year with great success.

Abi Blake says they're all about community:

"We couldn't have done any of this without the support of everyone who visits us, the musicians, our regulars, our incredible staff team. It's just been phenomenal and we're so thankful for everyone's support, because we wouldn't be here without those guys."

Landlady Abi, and her husband Robb, took over the pub in 2016 and have gained a reputation for being a top live music venue for Salisbury.

She explains how this grant from the Government will go a long way to retaining that:

"We'll be covering the whole garden space to create an outdoor area where people can come an enjoy, socially distanced obviously, music performances, arts based performances, poetry, literature, theatre, we're looking at film, and just a real eclectic cultural programme of activities for the people of Salisbury."

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said:

"This is more vital funding to protect cultural gems across the country, save jobs and prepare the arts to bounce back.

"Through Arts Council England we are delivering the biggest ever investment in the arts in record time.

"Hundreds of millions of pounds are already making their way to thousands of organisations.

"These awards build on our commitment to be here for culture in every part of the country."