Aberystwyth Town Council is showcasing “Welsh culture and local talent” by inviting string musicians to perform in the town throughout August.

After the town council had to suspend its summer programme for the Bandstand, they decided to support individual string musicians to play in the town centre for the enjoyment of shoppers and visitors.

The council are also hoping this will provide support for those in the arts industry that have suffered greatly due to the pandemic.

Aberystwyth Mayor Cllr Charlie Kingsbury said: “Whilst it’s disappointing that our summer events programme is smaller than we had planned due to the current Covid-19 crisis, Aberystwyth Town Council thought it was important that the town could still enjoy some local culture over the summer despite everything that’s going on.

“I’ve been blown away by the positive response to the local performers who have been taking part, and I’m exceptionally pleased to see that it has been so well received.

“This is a time where sadly the arts are suffering, and it’s important that we all do what we can to support the industry as much as we can.

“I’m grateful to the musicians and I look forward to hearing them play over the next month.”

Clerk to the council Gweneira Raw-Rees added: “Talented local guitarists and harpists will play throughout August in order to showcase Welsh culture and local talent, to enhance the experience of shoppers and visitors takin advantage of the town centre’s new safe zone, and to support local artists who have not been able to work for some months.”