WREXHAM'S MP has welcomed a record-breaking package of support for the UK's arts and culture sector.

Thousands of organisations across a range of sectors, including the performing arts and theatres, heritage, historic palaces, museums, galleries, live music and independent cinema will benefit from access to emergency grants and loans.

The package announced on Monday represents the biggest ever one-off investment in UK culture and will provide a lifeline to vital cultural and heritage organisations across the country hit hard by the pandemic, ensuring they stay afloat and protecting multi-billion pound industries that are famous around the world for the future.

It builds on the unprecedented financial assistance the Government has already provided to the UK’s cultural sector through the pandemic, with loans, business rates relief and furlough support.

More than 350,000 people in the recreation and leisure sector have been furloughed since the pandemic began.

Wrexham MP Sarah Atherton welcomed the announcement, explaining: “Today’s announcement is fantastic news for the whole of the UK and will provide a vital lifeline to cultural and arts institutions.

“Many arts, culture and heritage organisations across the UK are facing hardship as a result of the coronavirus outbreak and those in Wales are no exception.

“We have no time to lose in getting this money to the front line and I along with my colleagues in Westminster will be pushing the Welsh Government to ensure that happens.

“If the money gets to the front line it will not only secure jobs, but mean iconic venues can weather the storm created by coronavirus and come back stronger, and continue to be there for local residents and future generations to enjoy.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “From iconic theatre and musicals, mesmerising exhibitions at our world-class galleries to gigs performed in local basement venues, the UK’s cultural industry is the beating heart of this country.

“This money will help safeguard the sector for future generations, ensuring arts groups and venues across the UK can stay afloat and support their staff whilst their doors remain closed and curtains remain down”

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “Our arts and culture are the soul of our nation.

"They make our country great and are the lynchpin of our world-beating and fast growing creative industries.

“I understand the grave challenges the arts face and we must protect and preserve all we can for future generations.

"I said we would not let the arts down, and this massive investment shows our level of commitment.”