VALE residents living in rural areas could benefit from better arts provision if a new strategy is approved.

Arts Strategy 2002-2005 is a set of new plans to support the arts in Worcestershire, which were unveiled by Worcestershire County Council and presented to councillors last week.

The strategy, which is due to be approved by county councillors later this year, has also identified arts provision for young people and the disabled as priorities, as well as measures to boost arts funding, arts provision for the elderly and support for the voluntary and amateur sectors.

County arts officer Steve Boffy said: "Arts provision in Worcestershire is in a healthy position right now and moving in the right direction.

"We've examined all the issues surrounding the future of the arts and our draft strategy is tailored to keep the momentum going. Certain areas have been singled out for extra emphasis, such as arts services to young people and extending the reach of the arts to rural areas."

Councillor Stephen Clee, Worcestershire County Council's cabinet assistant for culture and community said: "Worcestershire is a county of culture and we intend to keep it that way.

"Without investment in the arts and support for community projects, we risk losing a very important part of our county's culture.

"This strategy is designed to protect, promote and nurture the creative arts in Worcestershire."