Before we had even applied to the Arts Council for our annual grant to produce Spit-Lit we were informed by their new Literature officer, David Cross, that they would be unable to maintain our existing level of funding because of the DCMS(1) cuts from Lottery funding being redirected to meet the growing Olympics bill. We were advised that we could apply for a much reduced level of funds but, having discussed this situation with our collaborators, we feel that as Spit-Lit is highly regarded we cannot lower our level of endeavour. We have all worked very hard to establish this celebration of women's writing and find the Arts Council's position deeply depressing. Our former officer Hilary Davidson was extremely supportive and she always gave us the encouragement to produce this unique festival.

If you have any comments you would like to make on our current position please write to David Cross, and Sarah Weir the Director, at Arts Council England London, 2 Pear Tree Court, London EC1R 0DS or email david.cross@artscouncil.org.uk and sarah.weir@artscouncil.org.uk.

Obviously we would still like to keep up with all our literary friends & connections because, having seriously enjoyed producing Spit-Lit and promoting such a diverse range of women's writing, we will continue to look for opportunities to present writers in different creative contexts. So please keep in touch and let us know what you are doing.

Best wishes Maggie Pinhorn Director

Notes:

The arts and cultural sector lost Ł152 million this year through Lottery funding going to the Olympics. The Government have just announced that Arts Council England funding will now receive an extra Ł50 m but not until 2010-11.

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