Some positive updates from our Creative Communities project to brighten a very rainy start to the year, as applications for the next round of grants opens.

As Mid Devon District Council's Creative Communities Grant Scheme continues to grow, so does its impact. Below is a snapshot of the inspiring work made possible through the programme—projects that enrich public spaces, strengthen community connections, and highlight the unique character of Mid Devon. These stories illustrate the real difference our investment is making on the ground. 

• Tiverton Book Festival- Tiverton’s 6th Book Festival returns this March 2026, bringing a vibrant programme of literary events to venues across the town. Hosted by Tiverton Library and the Liznojan Bookshop team, this year’s festival features creative writing workshops, a World Book Day quiz, and a series of sessions with visiting authors. With a mix of free activities and selected ticketed events, the festival offers accessible opportunities for readers and writers of all ages. More information can be found in their brochure and ticketed events page
• Tiverton Town Trail Booklet-Produced by Tiverton Museum of Life in Mid Devon, this booklet will change your average stroll around town into an educational insight into the history of the town
• Duo Tutti- Holding classical concerts for kids and their grownups in Tiverton and Cullompton Library (and others in the region). These free‑to‑attend sessions encourage children to explore music through imagination and play, offering an accessible introduction to classical performance. They have upcoming events not to be missed in February and March! Dates and times can be found here for Tiverton library and here for other venues.
• Animating St Boniface- Over the festive period, Crediton celebrated Devon’s patron saint, St Boniface, who was born in the town. A specially created illustrated and animated piece by Yellow Mouse Studios brought his story to life, highlighting his historical significance and his connection to the Christmas tree tradition. The animated book was first displayed at Grape & Grain before moving to Holy Cross for the church’s Christmas Tree Festival. In addition, a striking projection was showcased on the tower of Holy Cross Church, providing a visually engaging way for residents and visitors to experience the town’s heritage.
• Kick Start Art- Kick Start Art is a community‑focused creative programme for school‑aged children living in Crediton and the surrounding villages, led by local artist Linda Williamson. Delivered by the Crediton Heart Project, the initiative aims to inspire and motivate young people to explore their creativity, develop new artistic skills, and gain confidence through hands‑on learning. Their latest project is the Mid Devon Monsters Challenge! For more information on this and other challenges visit their website here.
• Junior Parkrun- Tiverton Junior Parkrun offers a fantastic way to start a Sunday morning on a positive note. This fun, free and friendly 2km event is designed to inspire children to build confidence, improve their fitness and enjoy being active in the fresh air alongside friends and family. With its supportive, non‑competitive atmosphere, participants are encouraged to take part at their own pace, making it an inclusive activity for all abilities. As we look forward to the promise of sunnier days ahead, the Junior Parkrun continues to provide a welcoming community space for young people to explore the outdoors and enjoy the local area. Further information can be found here.
• Christmas Festivities - Events organised by Tiverton Town Council and the Pannier Market Stallholder Collective helped create a vibrant festive atmosphere throughout the town centre during the annual Christmas light switch‑on. A lively programme of performances, creative workshops and stalls displaying local makers brought crowds together and filled the streets with seasonal cheer. The combination of community‑led activities and local talent ensured Tiverton felt alive with festive spirit, providing residents and visitors alike with a joyful start to the holiday season.

Cllr Steven Keable, Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Regeneration, said: “Mid Devon is full of talent, passion and imagination and our Creative Communities scheme is here to help bring those ideas to life. We’re encouraging local groups, organisations and businesses to step forward and apply for funding to support their next creative project. Whether you’re enhancing a local space, delivering an arts initiative, or bringing people together through culture and creativity, we want to support the work that strengthens our villages and town. I urge anyone with a great idea to get involved and help us continue to build vibrant, connected and inspiring communities across Mid Devon.”

The first round of applications for 2026/27 is now open and the deadline for applications is 24^th April 2026.

If you have any questions, please email the team on funding@middevon.gov.uk or find the guidance and application form here.