Local arts scene is worth taking pride in

THE creative industries contribute over £124 billion to the UK economy and in Folkestone we have some amazing cultural institutions, such as Strange Cargo and Creative Folkestone, and all of the events that they put on, like Charivari, the Folkestone Triennial and Folkestone Artworks.

- Tony Vaughan MP FOR FOLKESTONE AND HYTHE

This is in addition to the numerous independent artists and creatives contributing to the fabric of this amazing area.

It was brilliant to welcome Chris Bryant, the Minister for the Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism, to the Creative Quarter in Folkestone at the weekend. We had a wide-ranging discussion about how we can protect our creative past and ensure that our community fulfils its potential for the future as a leading, vibrant creative centre in the UK. I was proud to show him around the Old High Street and the craft market to meet local creatives and understand the challenges they face. We know that our community faces economic and social challenges, but we must never forget what we do well.

Our thriving arts scene not only creates employment and generates wealth, but enriches our lives through the paintings, books, exhibitions, plays and music it produces.