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19
Oct 2020
Harrogate International Festivals cuts more than half of jobs
Harrogate International Festivals has laid off more than half of its staff after missing out on an estimated £850,000 due to covid.
The arts charity, which was set up in 1966, now has just four staff remaining.
in a statement today, it warned of "further difficult decisions ahead".
The charity was forced to cancel its entire summer season of events in March, causing a huge loss of income from ticket sales and sponsors.
Fiona Movley, the chair of HIF, said:
Harrogate Theatre received £250,000 from Arts Council England. Also, £238,590 was awarded to Deer Shed Festival near Topcliffe, £117,500 to Ripon Museum Trust and £54,339 to Ripon Amateur Operatic Society.
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HIF has said it will need to raise funds to "secure its future", having used its reserves to support individuals and the creative community.
Sharon Canavar, chief executive at HIF, said:
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