YOUNG people in Saltcoats are being offered a unique chance to work with professional artists, musicians and performers as part of four weeks of free creative workshops this summer.

Cashback to the Future, a packed programme of creativity, will launch on July 11. Aimed at 14-19 year olds, participants will work with talented artists and tutors as part of almost 100 hours of workshops at Saltcoats Town Hall.

Including masterclasses in drawing, painting, acting, songwriting, dance and digital art, the Cashback programme will end with a live Ayrshire-wide celebration event on Friday, August 4, including performances and exhibitions.

Among the experienced artists who have signed up to the programme is Douglas King, a BAFTA in Scotland-nominated filmmaker who will lead classes on digital art, filmmaking and animation.

Leading performance workshops is Rachel Leonard, an actor, musician and dancer with extensive experience of directing and producing scripts.

Music classes will be led by multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and recording artist Finn LeMarinel, while artist and photographer Laura Frood will work with youngsters on more visual projects.

Finn speaks enthusiastically about the benefits for those getting involved in the music workshops, he said: “Being part of Cashback will open up a huge range of possibilities and opportunities for those taking part.

“You can write your own songs, make beats, write music for films, teach others - the list goes on and on.

“There’s also the chance to get involved in the music community. This will be something that stays with you and help you connect with others throughout your life.”

The programme is funded by the Scottish Government’s Cashback for Communities programme, which uses the proceeds of crime to back community projects helping disadvantaged young people.

As well as being free of charge, the programme will include a weekly travel allowance for those eligible and complementary lunches.

Rob Gallagher is co-ordinating the programme for community arts charity Impact Arts. He says this is an opportunity for young people to unleash their creativity and make their voice heard.

Rob said: “We’re very excited about the Cashback to the Future programme. Young people have so much to give through engaging with the arts, and always create work that is funny, surprising and inspiring.

“This is a massive opportunity for those taking part to pick up new skills from talented, experienced artists who know their art-forms inside out. The fact that such a special crop of artists have signed up to deliver the programme in Ayrshire tells its own story.

“Over the four weeks we will see young people in Saltcoats put at the very centre of the creative process, building confidence, and getting to produce work that truly uses their own voice.”

If you are interested in signing up, or would just like to find out more, please contact Impact Arts’ Kallum Campbell on 0141 575 3001 or email kallum.campbell@impactarts.co.uk.

Further details can also be found at www.impactarts.co.uk.