INSURANCE company Hiscox is sponsoring the York Early Music Festival in its 40th anniversary year.

2017 is a significant year for the internationally acclaimed 10-day summer festival which has announced a new three-year partnership with the York-based specialist insurer.

Delma Tomlin MBE, Director of the National Centre for Early Music – the administrative home of the York Early Music Festival – said: “We are delighted that in such a significant year in our history, Hiscox has taken the opportunity to work alongside us. 2017 marks both our 40th anniversary and the 17th International Young Artists Competition to be held in the City, attracting emerging professional ensembles from across the world. An ideal year to celebrate with such an internationally established partner.”

Phil Thorn, head of direct home insurance, Hiscox UK, said: “As a major employer in York, we are committed to supporting the community in which we operate and playing an active role. We have a long-held passion for the arts, as do many of our customers, and so are delighted to be involved in the York Early Music Festival in what will be a momentous year.” York Early Music Festival runs this year from July 7 – 15. Tickets on sale March 2017: www.ncem.co.uk/yemf