Traditional music groups and their supporters led a protest against funding cuts at the Scottish Parliament yesterday.

The Scots Music Group, the Traditional Music and Song Association and the Scottish Traditions of Dance Trust then met Linda Fabiani, the Culture Minister.

The Scots Music Group and the Traditional Music and Song Association were among those unsuccessful in applying for funds to the Scottish Arts Council this year. As a result of the demonstration and the meeting, both groups decided to re-approach the SAC for short-term funding.

An SAC spokeswoman said: "We have held discussions at a national level with representatives of the sector to look at how they can be supported into the future to continue to play a full part in the creative life of Scotland.

"We have also identified resources of up to £300,000 which will be used to progress the strategic issues arising from this review process. Once discussions with the sectors affected have concluded, we will provide further details of our strategic approach."