New arts festival receives funding boost from police

Battle Police has donated £200 to help fund the festival, which is to take place for the first time later this year.

Internationally renowned classical musicians drawn from premier UK and London based orchestras and ensembles will play five concerts in the town, in a range of large and small venues.

All monies raised from the event will fund future festivals and local charities.

Master classes by international musicians will also be given to children from a number of local schools.

The £200 grant from the police will be spent towards setting up a website promoting the event and booking venues.

David Furness, organiser of Battle Arts Festival said: “We are very pleased to receive this donation from Sussex Police.

“Our aim is to involve all the community of Battle and in particular students at local schools.

“It is also hoped that the arts festival will promote Battle as a town and assist in the economic development and employment.”

The donation comes from the Police Property Act Fund (PPAF), made up of monies received by the police from property confiscated by order of the court and then sold.

Emma Phillips, Police Community Support Officer said: “It is always an honour to be able to donate to such good causes as this one.

“We hope that their venture is successful and we look forward to seeing and hearing the results.”