LONDON.- In January a total of £144,438 was awarded by Arts Council England, West Midlands to projects in Birmingham through its Grants for the arts scheme.

The Grants for the arts programme in the West Midlands, funded by the National Lottery, awards over £5 million annually to arts projects and is open to a wide range of groups and individuals.

This month’s successful projects cover a wide range of activity across the West Midlands, with over £271,000 being awarded across the region. Fresh from his New Year Honour, Andy Hamilton has received an award for his latest project working with young people. Hamilton, who will be 90 this year, will work with young musicians and perform with them in venues across the city. Performances will take place at the Drum, Bearwood Corks and Symphony Hall.

Erdington's Virtual College has received a grant for a project working with young people outside of mainstream education. They will work alongside professional artists and aim for the accredited Arts Award, creating music, film, photography and animation.

Sally Luton, Executive Director of Arts Council England, West Midlands said: “We are proud to be able to support so many exciting projects across the region. These activities will help bring more art to more people in more places, and this in turn will enrich our everyday lives.”