The Bermuda Arts Council has paid tribute to a group of Bermuda artists and performers for their contributions to the Island's culture.

Lifetime achievement awards were yesterday given to percussionist Keith Caisey, dancer Barbara Horton-Symonds, and both Connie Dey and Marjorie Stanton for their work in theatre as an actress and a producer respectively.

Also honoured were accomplished dancers and dance instructors Sal Hodgeson and Anne Cherry, who were given the Founder's Award, and former Mid Ocean News and Royal Gazette editor David White, who received the Patron's Award for his contribution to the visual arts.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of Youth, Families, Sports and Community Development Glenn Blakeney stressed the importance of art on society.

"Cultural and artistic creativity and development are as important to society as the very air that people breathe, because as others have articulates, artists create identities for cultures and societies.

"Thus, I come here tonight with such a profound sense of gratitude for the work, dedication, and commitment demonstrated by those being recognised and honoured by the Bermuda Arts Council."

• See Tuesday's edition of The Royal Gazette for a profile on actress Connie Dey.