I AM writing to your paper to bring your attention to the Lancaster City Council's proposal to cut Arts and Events Funding, which could result in the loss of the LitFest and a severe reduction in tourist office events.

These proposed cuts to arts and cultural events funding will deeply and adversely affect the whole community.

Firstly, arts events generate well-supported, positive and creative activities which enhance the reputation and status of Lancaster and improve tourism, which in turn encourage links to business and potential residents, as well as providing numerous jobs throughout the area. Particularly the LitFest has built up a formidable reputation as a focus and inspiration for writers, poets and storytellers nationally and locally.

Secondly, these activities have a great deal of hidden benefits. Lancaster needs the arts to encourage the creativity and talent in its varied community. Children, and young people gain from opportunities to realise skills, talent and enjoyment which may offer potential in their future lives. The retired and elderly benefit from opportunities to be involved in these events, and feel a sense of community. These kind of activities are part of the life-blood to an area.

Short termist thinking will never pay when it comes to the arts. We need this kind of positive input, or we all lose out and Lancaster and Morecambe will be the poorer in community spirit and poorer in inspiration.

Amanda Bingley via e-mail