AN ARTS organisation has celebrated being awarded funds to run a new grassroots music project.

Sandy Hill Arts, based in Corfe Castle, has been given £28,129 by Arts Council England National Lottery Funding for a project that aims to deepen community engagement.

The project will give access to quality, diverse music in Purbeck and aims to inspire local music talent in the community.

The funds will be put towards supporting a diverse programme of musical events and buying a new marquee and PA system.

Bournemouth Echo: Sandy Hill Arts has celebrated receiving funding for a new grassroots music project.

Laurel Hart, artistic director at Sandy Hill, said the organisation was ‘incredibly grateful’ for the support.

“We have begun to generate a real musical presence in Purbeck,” she said.

“With this funding, we want to build on that by strengthening our ability to offer the local community access to new kinds of music that they might not otherwise experience, and importantly, appeal to younger audiences and those with additional accessibility needs.

“We will also be offering a platform for rising talent in the region to showcase their music throughout the year.”

Bournemouth Echo: Sandy Hill Arts has celebrated receiving funding for grassroots project

Laurel added: “This kind of support helps us develop into a go-to venue for different kinds of music, drawing talent from far and wide, while also supporting up-and-coming local musicians.

“We are very excited to launch this project with a performance by psychedelic rock band The Good Beast and the Big Byrd on June 25, followed by experimental musician Plumm on July 22.

“The funding will be instrumental in helping us cultivate a dynamic and inclusive space for musical talent and fuel a growing, vibrant local music scene.

“It's the beginning of our journey but in time we hope to create a lasting impact on the cultural fabric of our region.”

Chair of trustees at Sandy Hill, Melissa Viney, said the funding would bring more ‘top-quality’ music to the area, as well as supporting local musicians.

“It will bring life and colour to the local community,” Melissa said. “This grant will enable us to purchase a marquee and sound equipment and will allow to extend our programme throughout the year.

“It's an exciting and highly creative time for the arts in Purbeck.”

For more information, visit the Sandy Hill Arts website.