Arts organisations involved in rural touring are set to be given a publicity boost thanks to The National Rural Touring Forum (NRTF).

NRTF members - stretching the length and breadth of the UK - will now have access to specialist support helping them to market their events and tell their stories.

NRTF is launching the in-house rural and regional press agency with the dual role of better promoting rural touring while also supporting its members to gain greater visibility.

It is thought to be the first of its kind - the go-to source for rural touring news, bridging the gap between urban and rural touring and reaching news outlets nationally with a regional focus. 

It will act as a remote PR department for members - writing press releases, checking strategies, maintaining press lists and managing communication with media.

Holly Lombardo. Director NRTF, said:

“We want the Press Agency to be an important advocacy tool and contribute significantly to the visibility of rural and community touring across the UK. 

“Smaller arts organisations often have less capacity for press and PR coverage. Publicity is the thing our members have said they’d like more help with, so we are delighted to respond to that with dedicated support in this area.”

Members can access support by emailing: press@nrtf.org.uk

The in-house agency aims to provide timely, accurate and engaging news coverage, highlighting the stories, challenges, and successes of Rural Touring and rural life. 

Rural Touring helps level the playing field for those living in remote areas by providing access to professional performances at affordable prices.

Got news or innovative projects to share? Submit your updates and press releases to press@sparse.gov.uk for inclusion in the members section of our weekly rural bulletin!