Organisers of Penrith’s Winter Droving will not have to pay back a £5,000 grant despite the 2025 event being cancelled.
The cash was given to Eden Arts by Penrith Town Council ahead of the event in October.
Eden Arts was forced to cancel the Winter Droving at the 11th hour due to safety concerns over high winds after independent advice was given by a health and safety organisation.
A meeting of the full Penrith Town Council on Monday agreed that the cash could remain with Eden Arts.
The council said: “The council is satisfied that Eden Arts decision to cancel the event was made responsibly acting on the advice of an independent health and safety
organisation.
“Eden Arts has informed the Council that the £5,000 grant was spent on legitimate pre-event costs directly related to planned delivery – including planning, safety and supplier preparations – and that these monies cannot be recovered.
“By not seeking repayment, the council hopes that the £5,000 supports the viability of the Winter Droving returning in 2026, strengthening the event’s financial position and enabling planning to commence earlier and more confidently.
A spokesman for Penrith Town Council added: “Eden Arts acted properly and in good faith.
“Our decision not to reclaim the grant recognises those sunk costs and backs the potential return of the Winter Droving in 2026.
“We remain firmly committed to supporting high-quality cultural events that bring people into Penrith, boost our local economy, and celebrate our town.”
Adrian Lochhead, Eden Arts director said: “We are grateful for the council’s continued support and understanding.
“While the decision to cancel the 2025 Winter Droving was incredibly difficult, it was made with public safety firmly in mind.
“The council’s recognition of the unavoidable costs already incurred enables us to look ahead with renewed confidence.”
