A COMMUNITY arts group has been awarded £45,000 to help further its programme of activities.

Thirsk-based Rural Arts received the cash from the third round of the Government’s Culture Recovery Fund.

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It will enable the organisation to rebuild after the Covid pandemic whilst furthering their aim of delivering arts programmes to every community in North Yorkshire.

Max May, director and CEO, said: "During the pandemic, our outreach work – both online and in person – has become more vital than ever, and our community arts centre has been forced to close and re-open three times by national lockdowns.

"We’re thrilled that Rural Arts’ significant and unique contribution to the cultural landscape of North Yorkshire has been recognised – and supported - by the Culture Recovery Fund”.

Kevin Hollinrake, MP for Thirsk and Malton, said he was 'thrilled' for the organisation.

He added: "I'm incredibly proud to have this organisation based in my constituency, especially given the significant arts and heritage, culture in Herriott's country.

"I have always been committed to protecting our theatres, museums, galleries and organisations around North Yorkshire who have faced an especially tough time during the pandemic.”

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