Dorset’s rural arts charity has honoured the contribution of its community volunteers with a celebratory coffee morning.

On Saturday, January 14, over 40 representatives from a network of more than 250 Artsreach charity volunteers gathered for a celebration event at Broadmayne Village Hall.

Artsreach is a touring arts charity in Dorset which aims to connect and empower rural communities through providing creative and cultural experiences.

Its volunteers work to host a programme of more than 130 performances, which is seen by over 10,000 audience members, subsequently raising more than £30,000 in support of local community venues such as village halls.

The celebration included welcome speeches by Executive Director, Kerry Bartlett and Chair of the Trustees, David Wood and presentations for long-serving volunteers. Notable thanks given to one volunteer team who retire from Winterborne Stickland after more than 18 years promoting Artsreach events.

Kerry Bartlett said: “Following the launch of our new spring season and positive news regarding our continued funding from Dorset Council, this event was an important moment allowing us to stop, recognise and celebrate the invaluable efforts that our dedicated team of volunteers go to in bringing our programme of cultural activity to life for the residents of their rural communities.”

The Artsreach team were also joined by Dorset Councillor Laura Beddow, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Communities, and Tracy Cooper, Community and Recreation Officer for Cultural Services, who gave thanks on behalf of Dorset Council, recognising the important impact cultural events have in rural communities.

Cllr Laura Beddow said "Dorset Council is fiercely proud of our culture sector and I’m delighted that we continue to support Artsreach. It’s a magical organisation and its volunteers are all incredible people!"

More information about Artsreach can be found on the charity's website: www.artsreach.co.uk