MINING company Imerys Minerals has been unveiled as one of the key sponsors of this year’s Purbeck Art Weeks Festival.

The festival, running from May 21 until June 5, will feature the world famous Poole-born cellist Natalie Clein, and a wide range of workshops and events.

Festival events manager Richard Brown said: “Purbeck Arts Week is such an important part of the events calendar for the area.

“We felt there was a great opportunity this year to develop the programme and offer something for everyone.

“The partnership with Imerys will enable us to move the event forward as a fully-fledged arts festival of UK importance.”

The 2011 festival is going to include concerts, illustrated talks, films, poetry, dance and drama.

The Festival Fringe, taking place in a big tent at Worth Matravers’ Square and Compass pub, will showcase a range of music, cabaret, poetry and stand-up comedy.

Mr Brown said: “We are absolutely delighted that Natalie Clein is our visiting artistic director and will bring other world-class artists to Purbeck.

“Purbeck Arts Week has for many years promoted local arts, and last year we decided to offer some fringe and evening activities.

“This was such a success that we are expanding these events and there should be something for everyone, visitors and the local community alike.

“The PAW Festival will help put Purbeck firmly on the UK map for the arts.”

The festival has grown from the Purbeck Arts Week events, that have continued for the past decade.

This year the organisers have developed a broad programme, encompassing visual art, music dance, dance, film and story telling.”

Imerys UK Ball Clays general manager Chris Cleaves said: “We are proud to add Purbeck Arts Week to one of the many charities and good causes Imerys supports.”