CULTURAL organisations across the county have been awarded a grant to protect them from the economic impact of the pandemic.

The funding was announced by Arts Council England on October 12 as part of the governments £1.57 billion package.

Grants are aimed at enabling organisations, affected by the COVID-19 crisis, to stay afloat, providing them with support over a six-month period to ensure that by 31 March 2021 they can reopen, or operate on a sustainable, cost-efficient basis until they are able to reopen fully at a later date.

The main recipients in Hampshire are The Point Eastleigh and its sister venue in Hedge End, The Berry Theatre, as well as Happy's Circus which based in Wessex House, Eastleigh.

The Hampshire Music Service has also received funding of £249,000.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: "This funding is a vital boost for the theatres, music venues, museums and cultural organisations that form the soul of our nation.

"It will protect these special places, save jobs and help the culture sector’s recovery."

The Point and The Berry theatre have received an allocation of £193,000.

Artistic Director of The Point Sacha Lee said: "This support from the Government’s Cultural Recovery Fund is an absolute game changer for The Point and The Berry Theatre.

"Not only does it help us bring our audiences, participants and stakeholders safely back into our buildings, it secures the long-term arts ecology in the region."

Happy Circus has received just over £210,000 and general manager Pat Randell said: "2020 is a devastating year for everyone personally, emotionally and financially.

"Although no amount of fundraising can replace those who have been lost and loved or protect those who remain vulnerable, the grant ensures that the Circus can resume touring."