Bridgwater Town Deal Board and Somerset Council announce successful applicants for another round of Bridgwater Event grants.
The events grant funded by Somerset Council’s Town Deal investment from Government, released in May 2023, is proving popular with local event organisers. Eight events that received funds have been held so far bringing an estimated 12400 visitors to the town and a further nine events are in the pipeline.
One of the new events that has had funding agreed coming up this year is the Mayhem Music and Film festival – a new two-day film festival on 18-19 May celebrating music in film presented by Somerset Film and Bridgwater Arts Centre with an amazing programme in venues across town.
These are the new events agreed at the most recent panel:
Diversity Voice have been awarded £15 595 to create a Cultural Day in Blake Gardens – Our Home will be held on 29 June and celebrates the diversity of the local community.
A Pride event to be held on 30 June across the Town has been awarded £5525 and will showcase incredible LGBTQIA+ performers and organisations produced by Bridgwater Independent Market.
Super Saturday comes to Bridgwater on 20 July taking place across the town and echoing events that happen elsewhere in the county. With £20 000 they plan to have three stages, eight performance companies and plenty to do.
Ruth Lambert, co-chair of the grant decision panel, said “The panel felt it was hugely important that our funding brought exciting large-scale events to Bridgwater this summer. This round has seen some exceptional applications that will bring residents and visitors back into the town and much needed footfall for businesses.”
Cllr Ros Wyke, Lead Member for Economy, Planning and Assets at Somerset Council, said: “The quality and range of events selected so far have demonstrated great imagination, innovation, and enthusiasm. They are truly impressive community contributions.
“With its planned regeneration, Bridgwater has never been better placed to welcome residents, visitors and businesses alike back to its streets for a sustainable programme of entertainment, activities, arts and culture. Key to success is ensuring that we support and encourage everyone involved, working together to unlock the town’s economic, social and cultural potential while maximising every funding opportunity.”
Grants are available from £500 up to £10,000 to support organisations in their delivery of new events and activities that will draw people to the Town Centre and re-energise Bridgwater.
Do you have an idea for an event in Bridgwater? Do you want to be a part of breathing life into the spaces of Bridgwater? Could you create something special in the heart of Bridgwater itself? For more information please read the Animating Bridgwater Grant Application Guidance.