A leading Midlands multi-arts festival is encouraging more businesses to support its summer event, after a Persimmon Homes donated £1,000.

The Lichfield Festival, a charity that provides inspiring multi-arts experiences, has announced this year’s event will take place from 8-18 July.

Festival organisers were handed the £1,000 grant from Persimmon Homes West Midlands through the builder’s long-running

Community Champions scheme. Each month Persimmon donates up to £64,000 to worthy causes.

After Covid forced the cancellation of last year’s event, the organisers are working hard to ensure this year’s festival is Covid safe.

Caroline King for Lichfield Festival said: “We are delighted to announce the return of the Lichfield Festival in July. The event may operate slightly differently as we incorporate the necessary safety measures to ensure the wellbeing of our audiences, but it will still be action packed.”

“We aim is to provide a community event to inspire creativity through performance and participation, with diverse events ranging from dance to drama, classical music to comedy and folk to family workshops. We have been voted “Staffordshire’s Best Arts Festival” by What’s On magazine on several occasions, most recently in 2019.”

“This year we are welcoming artists including Alistair McGowan, the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Mica Paris, Eddi Reader, Ballet Cymru and the Grimethorpe Colliery Band.”

“We are passionate about nurturing young talent and our Aspire! programme has engaged with over 6,000 members of the local community to date. This year will see the return of our Young Artists and Young Critics Series, and a special interactive ‘Family Day’ on the Cathedral West Lawns, including the premiere of a new version of Peter & the Wolf for children of all ages.”

“Grants like this one from Persimmon Homes are essential for the Festival’s success and we would welcome the support of other businesses. Donations can be made by visiting www.lichfieldfestival.org”

Stephen Cleveley, managing director for Persimmon Homes West Midlands, said: “We are delighted to help support the return of such a popular multi-arts events in the Midlands.”

Persimmon Homes is currently building 450 stunning new homes in Lichfield at its St John’s Grange development off London Road.

To apply to Persimmon Homes Community Champions scheme, visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity