DATES have now been fixed for a second annual arts event in the county.

West Malvern Arts Festival, from August 19 to 21, will build upon the success of last year’s inaugural festival, which was hailed a great success, despite less-than-perfect weather.

The festival is held as a fund-raising venture in aid of the Malvern Hills Community Foundation, which was created by West Malvern resident Laurie Gregory.

Last year’s event brought together artists and craftspeople of all types, who exhibited their works in a variety of venues across the village, from the Brewers Arms to the primary school and the church and Regents Theological College to garages and gazebos.

Mr Gregory said: “Last summer’s event was a great success, in spite of the heavy rain we had over much of the weekend.

“At least this year, we know it won’t be any wetter. We’re planning a bigger and better festival this year, with more artists and events such as music and poetry.”

Mr Gregory, a social worker and businessman, set up the Malvern Hills Community Foundation in 2008 with the aim of raising a £10 million endowment – which could then be used to pay grants to individuals and groups in the area.

He intends it to become an organisation similar to the Worcester Municipal Charities, which has been dispensing aid for 500 years.

He said: “So far, we’ve raised £25,000 for our endowment fund, but the problem in the current climate is finding somewhere to put the money that pays a decent interest rate.”