A FESTIVAL of classical music which attracts world-class musicians to East Lothian will return to the county this year, after securing a further two years of funding from Creative Scotland.

Organisers of the Lammermuir Festival told the Courier in September last year that the festival was “under threat”, after an application to Creative Scotland’s Open Fund was unsuccessful.

Two applications for cash were, said festival bosses, rejected by Creative Scotland on “fair work” grounds and for not meeting “equality, diversity and inclusion” standards, while a third was rejected as the public body was prioritising events held earlier in the year.

READ MORE: East Lothian festival's future 'under threat' as funding is cut

Last year’s festival, which saw more than 6,000 visitors, was funded by reserve funds, with donations being accepted to help fund this year’s event.

The decision to deny funding drew backlash from politicians, members of the public and festival musicians.

An open letter, signed by more than 350 musicians, composers and supporters, was sent to Creative Scotland last year calling for funding to be granted.

South Scotland MSP Craig Hoy said at the time that he would “challenge” the notion that the festival, which has been running since 2011, was not diverse enough.

READ MORE: Assurances sought over future of Lammermuir Festival

Now a spokesperson for the festival has confirmed that Creative Scotland has agreed to help fund the festival for at least a further two years.

Funding of £150,000 has been granted for 2024 and 2025 – slightly less than in previous years, with the 2022 festival receiving £90,000 alone.

This funding, on top of public donations, means that this year’s festival will go ahead from September 5 to 16, with the full programme set to be launched on June 11 and public booking opening on June 14.

James Waters, CEO and joint artistic director of the festival, said: “We are delighted to be in a position to confirm that the Lammermuir Festival will go ahead in September this year.

“We are hugely grateful for the support we’ve been given from people across the music industry and our audiences, and to the many individuals, trusts and foundations who have given generously over the last few months.

“Their commitment has allowed us to keep planning and preparing what we believe will be a wonderful festival this autumn.

“With recent confirmation of two years of support from Creative Scotland, we can now say confidently that the planned festival will happen.

“We thank them for their recognition of the value the festival holds for so many in East Lothian and further afield.”

Ian Morrison, head of music at Creative Scotland, said: “Creative Scotland recognises the financial challenges faced by Lammermuir Festival when presenting last year’s event.

“Following feedback advice from our music team, provided as part of standard process for applicants, we’re happy that their strengthened application was successful at a recent funding panel.

“This is the single largest award the event has received to date,

and we hope that the stability offered by a two-year commitment allows the festival to continue to deliver world-class music in East Lothian while unlocking other sources of funding for a more secure future.”