Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival boogies on thanks to funding boost

The Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival will continue for another year thanks to support from Link’s community fund.

The festival received £500 from the Link in the Community Fund, which will be spent on storing equipment for the festival next year.

Young people participating in the Highlands and Islands Music Festival piping competition.

(Credit: Kevin McGlynn)

Caroline Boyle, the festival’s secretary, said: “We very much value the support of businesses and funders, as without them, the festival wouldn’t be able to continue.”

Link Group’s Head of Community Wellbeing Grant Alexander said: “Donations from the Link in the Community Fund are making a real difference.

“For some people, the fund has supported community initiatives that are a lifeline as they provide a warm space where people can have a chat and, possibly, a hot meal – something they may not frequently experience.

“Some of these groups give people the opportunity to learn new skills while collaborating with others, while other community causes provide crucial support to individuals and families experiencing tough times.”

Link partner West Highland Housing Association helped to allocate the funding.

Young people participating in the Highlands and Islands Music Festival dance competition.

(Credit: Ailie Munro)

West Highland Housing Association’s Chief Executive Brett Sadler added: “Community festivals such as the Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival play such an important role in bringing people together in this remote and rural part of Scotland.

“I am delighted that assistance from the Link in the Community Fund has helped allow the festival to continue for another year.”

The Link in the Community Fund has donated £42,800 to 93 causes since its creation a year ago.

Young people participating in the Highlands and Islands Music Festival piping competition.