HERITAGE and culture have a vital role to play in reviving the fortunes of Wisbech, Councillor Alan Melton, Leader of Fenland District Council, said last week.

Speaking at the official launch of the first Wisbech Arts Festival, Cllr Melton said: “The arts are an integral part of the wider vision we have for the regeneration of the town.”

He also praised the terrific work done by volunteers working together with the public sector and said some “exciting initiatives” were in the pipeline, including one with the National Trust.

The two-week festival, which continues until Monday, has been organised by a team of volunteers at Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House. It has featured a wide range of music, theatre, poetry, art, photography and film and showcased some of the best talent in the area.

It concludes on Monday with the town council’s Jubilee Street Party taking place in the Market Place from noon-8pm.