Surrey and East Hampshire to receive £2 million as part of Culture Recovery Fund

18 art organisations in Surrey and East Hampshire are set to benefit from the Culture Recovery Fund.

More than a thousand venues across England will receive a share of £257-million as the sector has suffered badly through coronavirus.

The Watts Gallery Trust in Guildford will get the most money in our area with more than £420,000 allocated.

Alistair Burtenshaw, Director of Watts Gallery Trust, said:

“I am extremely grateful to the Government for this vital support to aid our financial sustainability at this challenging time. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our staff, creative practitioners, volunteers and supporters alike for their commitment and tireless efforts in continuing to deliver our Art for All programmes throughout the pandemic. Our digital programmes have kept audiences entertained, and our community learning workshops were quickly adapted to make sure that those who need it most have still been able to reap the wide-reaching benefits of creativity and art.”

“Having implemented Government-recommended safety measures across our site, we have commenced a phased reopening of Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village since July. It has been a joy to be able to welcome visitors, volunteers, programme participants and staff back in person or through our digital programmes and I look forward to working with our community to further extend our Art for All ethos at this difficult time for everyone"

Guildford's Yvonne Arnaud Theatre will also benefit with £248,422 of funding.

Joanna Read, Director and Chief Exec of the Yvonne Arnaud said on Twitter:

"So relieved and delighted to get this news this morning.

"Grateful to everyone for their support of our glorious theatre.

"Theatre changes lives, brings us together to celebrate, share and learn.

"So vital that culture is supported."

Other arts organisations that will receive money from the Culture Recovery Fund are:

-Gilbert White & the Oates Collections (Selborne) £168,778

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said:

“This funding is a vital boost for the theatres, music venues, museums and cultural organisations that form the soul of our nation. It will protect these special places, save jobs and help the culture sector’s recovery.

“These places and projects are cultural beacons the length and breadth of the country. This unprecedented investment in the arts is proof this government is here for culture, with further support to come in the days and weeks ahead so that the culture sector can bounce back strongly.”