An Aberystwyth councillor is urging the town council to set aside money in for the arts and entertainment industry, as they “fall through the cracks”.

During an Aberystwyth Town Council meeting on 26 October, town councillors considered the draft budget for the 2020/2021 financial year.

During the discussion, Cllr Mark Strong (pictured, left) asked the council to consider setting aside funds to support the arts industry, which has suffered greatly due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I’ve got a major concern for a lot of people who income is dependent on the arts,” Cllr Strong said.

“They can’t get help because they fall through the cracks. We need to look at doing something inventive and soon.

“Everything we pride Aberystwyth on and the things we take for granted will be gone. If we’re serious about our community and society, we’re going to have to make some unpopular decisions.”

Mayor Cllr Charlie Kingsbury (pictured, right) said: “I completely empathise with what you’re saying. I think it’s worthwhile to consider for the next year or so.

“We have a proud history of supporting the arts.”

Cllr Kingsbury suggested the council put together a “concrete” proposal on how it can support the local arts.