Published: Thursday, 17th December, 2009 7:30am
Skids frontman to head city arts festival 
by Gary Fitzpatrick
AN ARTS festival in Dunfermline is to be headed by Richard Jobson, singer, film director and TV presenter.
The Skids vocalist will be curator of the Fifer Festival in March, part of a year-long programme organised by the council entitled, 'Celebrating Fife 2010: One Year of Culture'.
The event is described by the council as, "An eclectic, exciting, not to be missed, 'once in a lifetime' programme of music and arts events, workshops, master classes, 'an audience with', and film showings, celebrating and showcasing the illustrious career of Richard Jobson - presented by Richard and supported by special guests."
Richard Jobson and his band came to prominence during the punk explosion of the '70s and enjoyed hits such as 'Test Tube Babies', 'Masquerade' and 'Into the Valley'.
He enjoyed a successful career later as a TV presenter before moving into film direction with movies such as 'Sixteen Years of Alcohol' and 'New Town Killers'.
The Skids reformed in 2007 for home town concerts at the Glen Pavilion and then a performance at T in the Park. They were back in action recently for the Homecoming Scotland concert in Glasgow.
Other events planned in Dunfermline include an exhibition of local heroes in the Carnegie Library and art in shop windows, where artists will display their work in unused shop fronts.
'The Bruce Festival', a celebration of the life of Robert the Bruce will be held in Pittencrieff Park in August and promoted by Events Scotland around the world.
Councillor Joe Rosiejak, chair of the City of Dunfermline area committee, said he hoped the events would appeal to all ages throughout the whole community.
"2010 will be a fantastic year for the city of Dunfermline and indeed for Fife and there really is something for everyone on the programme," said Mr Rosiejak.
"I hope people support our year of culture and help make it a year to remember and I'd like to thank everyone who has been involved in organising these events."
Launching the year of culture, council leader Peter Grant said, "2010 is for everyone.
"There are events for all ages, tastes and interests.
"Fife Council is proud to have made a substantial investment in the year-long programme.
"I am sure this will help attract many more visitors to the Kingdom and I hope they will take time to discover our many hidden gems while they are here."
