The Budleigh Music Festival has announced its new patron.

Bob Chilcott, a renowned composer and choral director, was unveiled as the festival's patron at a lunchtime event this week.

He is no stranger to the festival, having previously hosted two sell-out choral workshops.

These workshops ended with public performances, including this year's event where participants performed his composition, A Little Jazz Mass, marking the 20th anniversary of the piece.

The Budleigh Music Festival is an annual event that features a week of classical music concerts and events.

It showcases both world-renowned musicians and emerging talent, with a focus on delivering high-quality performances to the South West.

The festival also collaborates with local schools to provide young people with opportunities to experience and perform classical music.

Kate Somerby, chair of Budleigh Music Festival, said: "It is wonderful to welcome Bob as our new patron.

"He is a genuinely inspirational composer and choir leader, which anyone who has joined one of our workshops over the last couple of years will attest to.

"Through the varied performances which make up our annual festival, we aim to foster a love for classical music, help people explore new music and enrich the cultural life of the region, something which we know Bob will help us develop even further."

The announcement was made at a celebratory lunch for festival friends, attended by more than 50 people, at The Holt at Budleigh Salterton Cricket Club.

Bob Chilcott said: "I am delighted to take on this role.

"There is something a bit special about this festival.

"I remember coming down to do a singing day, I went for a walk on the beach and I saw the poster advertising the event.

"I thought then, "this looks like something special" and I was right, it is a fantastic festival with great energy, right here in Budleigh Salterton."

The next Budleigh Music Festival is scheduled to take place from June 27 to July 5, 2025.