Lucky dozen share council event funds

Councillors complained a little that particular events in their own wards had not been supported, but in the end they approved a plan to help fund 12 events and festivals for 2019/20.

The events chosen by Argyll and Bute Council will share £113,000 of funding aimed at increasing the appeal of Argyll and Bute as a ‘world-class tourist destination’.

A total of 21 bids, totalling £221,060, were received towards the £113,000 fund – which offers small grants of up to £5,000 and large grants of more than £5,000.

Council officers prioritised applications that demonstrated ‘the best return on public investment, promotional value to Argyll and Bute and a good range of effects for the local economy’. Adding to the area’s visitor and tourism offer was another vital component in the judging process.

As the plan was agreed at the council’s Policy and Resources Committee meeting on December 13, Bute councillor Jim Findlay spoke for music festival ButeFest, which was unsuccessful in its bid, saying that it brought in £250,000 for the island.

He added: ‘If we’re going to grow events, we need to nurture them. Bute needs your help.’

Councillor Sandy Taylor welcomed the council’s approach to funding, but voiced concern that Inveraray Highland Games organisers may not have known they could apply.

Fergus Murray, the council’s head of economic development, replied: ‘We made every effort to make everyone aware.’

Under £5,000: West Highland Yachting Week, £3,600; Tarbert Scottish Series, £2,160; H&I Music and Dance Festival, £5,000; Isle of Jura Music Festival, £2,880; Helensburgh Winter Festival, £5,000; Bute Noir, £3,500.

Over £5,000: Mull of Kintyre Music and Arts Festival, £7,920; Cowal Highland Gathering, £49,107.60; Oban Games – Argyllshire Gathering, £3,600; Tiree Music Festival, £12,500; Oban Live, £15,000; Argyll Rally (Dunoon Presents), £2,732.40.