A DUNFERMLINE arts hub has been forced to cancel events over public safety fears.

Ian Moir, who runs Fire Station Creative on Carnegie Drive, has said the business was on track to lose up to £7,000 before the end of the year.

The hub felt it necessary to cancel their two Christmas carol-singing events and their Hogmanay party even before tighter restrictions were imposed from Boxing Day.

Ian said: “It was only guidance (then) but we felt a moral burden to cancel the events.

“We were backed into a corner; we do not want to be responsible for putting people in danger.

“We can’t adhere to social-distancing, and we don’t want to cause anyone to fall ill.”

He said that not only were they being forced to give out refunds for the sold-out events but their day trade had also been a lot quieter.

“The safety of our customers is paramount,” Ian said, “but if we are not in a full lockdown, our trade will be badly affected.

“Small businesses are frustrated at the mixed messages from the Scottish Government about the hospitality and music entertainment sector.

“The reality is that a lot of large music venues are pulling gigs, artists are holding their breath and hoping for the best, and performing artists are just crestfallen.

“We don’t even know how necessary this is – it's the moral burden which is placed on us.”

Without grants from the Government, businesses like Ian’s are concerned about what the future holds.

“I want to express my gratitude to the public who continue to use the venue and we aim to do what we can to ensure their safety.”

Last January, Fire Station Creative was forced to cancel young artist Lewis Deeney’s show due to lockdown.

Lewis is now due to exhibit next month but concerns are rising that history may repeat itself.

He said: “It’s overwhelming, you put so much effort and time and hope into it and there’s no real clear answers.

It’s the lack of clarity.”

Artists like Lewis have been hit just as hard by lockdowns as places like Fire Station Creative, which they rely on to display their art.

“I have had bits and bobs through the pandemic and there have been opportunities, not the full thing,” said Lewis, “you don’t get an opening, or it’s all online.

“Ian has put things in place but it’s frustrating because I have put in a lot of effort and have a lot more to give.

“Art is what can bring people together and can allow you to see the bigger picture.

“Lockdown only further divides and separates us, I want art to unify us.”

If plans go ahead, Lewis’ art will be on display at Fire Station Creative from January 7.