AN East Yorkshire arts centre has £354,597 from the Arts Council England.

The award to Pocklington Arts Centre (PAC), is one of 41 across the country and the seventh highest award nationally and one of only 12 awards in the north of England.

The award will be put towards a £474,597 project which help develop the first floor of the building, incorporating it into the venue alongside improvements and remodelling of other areas.

The arts centre has gained both a regional and nationwide reputation since opening in 2000 attracting internationally renowed performers to the East Yorkshire market town. Past performers include: Joan Armatrading, Sir Tom Courtenay, Jason Manford, Opera North, Sarah Millican and Lesley Garrett.

Venue manager Janet Farmer, said: "There was a high level of competition for the funding so we are absolutely delighted and surprised to have been awarded this grant.

"It will enable the venue to offer improved facilities for customers, staff, volunteers and performers. We have waited a long time to incorporate the first floor of the Grade Two listed building into the arts centre, which has laid empty since the building opened in 2000.

"For the announcement to be made on the 15th anniversary of the venue's first film screening, makes the news all the more special. We have worked with the town council and Mason Clark Associates for a number of years to develop this project and more recently from Karen Durham and Ralph Dartford from the Arts Council.

"The funding now enables us to realise this dream. A huge thank you to everyone involved in making this happen."

Paul West, the Mayor of Pocklington, said: "The award is stunning news for the arts centre and the town as a whole. Congratulations to Janet Farmer and all of the venue's staff and volunteers on this fantastic achievement.

"It is wonderful to see the arts centre recognised in this way and for all of its achievements over the last fifteen years. Pocklington Town Council look forward to working with the arts centre on this significant investment in the town."