BEAMINSTER'S Big Day has received a big cheque - to help the town bring this year's Beaminster Festival to a spectacular end.

Beaminster Festival has received £900 from The Co-operative to help cover the cost of Beaminster's Big Day celebration on July 7.

Organisers are promising a jam-packed programme with something for everyone at the week-long festival which opens on Sunday, June 30.

Musical, dramatic and literary events will take place at several venues around the town, with the second Beaminster's Big Day marking the finale on the last Sunday afternoon.

Top names include Ann Widdecombe who will be talking about her autobiography on Monday, July 4, and speaking about the Cockleshell Heroes World War Two raid on Friday, July 5.

The festival received the cash boost from The Co-operative's Community Fund, a pot of money accumulated by member customers opting to donate all or part of their annual dividend to good causes in the area. The money is distributed by The Co-operative's local area committees. David Wootton, speaking for the Big Day organisers, said: “We're delighted The Co-operative decided to give us the money towards organising the event. “Beaminster's Big Day has aimed to create something that is very different from the many events in West Dorset.

“We have funded a number of workshops so that local youngsters can learn from experts how to create carnival costumes and puppets, how to perform in a parade, and how to street dance. We will see the results of their efforts on July 7. This is a community event with something for everyone.”

Vicki Black, from The Co-operative's Wiltshire and Dorset Area Committee, said: “Supporting local communities has been an inherent part of The Co-operative's values and principles since the very beginning of the Co-operative Movement.

“We are particularly proud of our Community Fund, as it demonstrates how the generosity of our members can make a real difference in their local area.”

One of the highlights of this year's festival is the art exhibition in the public hall, sponsored by local solicitors, Kitson & Trotman. Thirty local artists including painters, ceramicists, and photographers have come together to show the artistic talent around the town.

For tickets contact the Beaminster box office on 01308 862943 or beam festbooking@btinternet.com Visit beamfest.org.uk for more details on the full programme.