Pendle Young Musicians
1108. Ruth Sutton
Ruth Sutton, from Lancashire, has provided funding for young people in her local community to benefit from musical education since establishing the ‘Pendle Young Musicians Bursary’ in 2012.
Ruth was inspired by her long-standing passion for music to launch a competition that could provide assistance for students in Pendle and the surrounding area in continuing their musical studies. The competition operates every two years, providing £18,000 in funding to the successful musicians. The success of the bursary has seen Ruth recently establish her own charity, the ‘Ruth Sutton Trust for Music’, in order to further promote, improve and develop public education in the art and science of music in Lancashire. Ruth has also been active in supporting other causes in her community, donating £20,000 for the installation of 21 defibrillators across Pendle.
Ruth’s award will be presented by her local MP Andrew Stephenson.
In a personal letter to Ruth, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“You should feel very proud of the difference your bursary is making for young musicians across Pendle, enabling them to continue their studies and fulfil their potential. The success of your competition is a testament to your own passion for music and commitment to young people. I wish you the very best with your continued work to support musical education in your community.”
Andrew Stephenson, MP for Pendle, said:
“I’m delighted Ruth has been recognised by the Prime Minister for her huge contribution to Pendle. She isn’t one who seeks the limelight which makes this award even more special.”
Ruth said:
“I feel very proud that we are able to help so many talented young musicians through the Pendle Young Musicians Bursary. With my sincere thanks, I feel most humble to be recognised in this way.”