GUERNSEY’S Schools Music Service will not go down without a fight if Education is to cut funding, according to the island’s ‘musical ambassador’ Richard de la Rue (pictured).

Mr de la Rue said he did not officially speak on behalf of the service, but he considered it so valuable to the island that he would do anything in his power to keep it going.

Education minister Carol Steere has suggested that music and youth services were both areas in which the department might consider cuts as it addresses its £1.5m. budget deficit.

‘Were it to seriously threaten the Schools Music Service, I would drop everything I am doing and lend my full attention to any campaign to preserve it,’ said Mr de la Rue, who was named Guiton Guernsey ambassador of the year earlier this month at the Awards for Achievement 2008 for his work as director of the Victor Hugo Music Festival.

‘And if that failed, I would start raising money for it – it is too important to let go without a major fight.’

Its value should not be underestimated, he said.

‘It is the single most important musical facility this island has. The powerful effect for good it has for people is profound.’