FOUR creative organisations have secured Arts Council funding for the next four years.

Dancefest, C&T, Live and Local, and Meadow Arts had their applications approved to continue their status as one of the 670 National Portfolio Organisations to receive a slice of the £1 billion investment in conjunction with the National Lottery between 2015-18.

Cllr Lucy Hodgson, cabinet member for localism and communities, said: "This is excellent news and shows how valued these organisations are for the Worcestershire area.

"Retaining their status as National Portfolio Organisations is a key part of these groups being able to continue to operate. We welcome the fact that they have been assured funding for the next few years."

Dancefest runs dance classes and workshops across Worcestershire for all age groups, as well as producing and promoting performances.

C&T is a theatre company working with young people, blending performance with technology to engage students.

Live and Local (Shindig) is one of the leading touring schemes in the country, bringing theatre, dance groups and musicians from the UK and abroad to the towns and villages of Worcestershire.

Meadow Arts is a contemporary public art organisation, commissioning and siting art works in public places and heritage settings.