Alnwick Town Council said its bid draws on the town’s heritage, creativity and the natural landscape
Two more locations in north-east England have confirmed they are vying for the title of UK Town Of Culture 2028.
Alnwick in Northumberland and Jarrow in South Tyneside both said they will enter the contest to scoop £3m to fund a year of cultural activities.
More than 1,000 people from Alnwick have taken part in a series of consultation events designed to help shape the town’s bid, while Jarrow Forward, the town’s Neighbourhood Board and South Tyneside Council are working with partners to build its case.The towns will compete for the honour against rivals from across the UK, including North East neighbours Gateshead, North Shields, Bishop Auckland and Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Alnwick Town Council said it has held a number of school workshops, a business breakfast and a public consultation event “to co-create a long-term cultural vision for the town”.
Music and live performance emerged as the most requested activities, followed by food festivals, sports events, film and television experiences and outdoor activities.
Rosie Bush, a teacher at Duchess’s Community High School, said: “I think it’s great that our young people are being asked for their ideas as they have a real passion for the area.”
Jarrow Town Council said, if shortlisted, Jarrow Forward will work with young people, community groups, businesses, residents and creatives to develop a programme that reflects Jarrow’s heritage, community strength and cultural ambition.
Leader of South Tyneside Council, Tracey Dixon, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to share and celebrate the national story emanating from Jarrow with the whole of South Tyneside, the wider North East region and the rest of the UK and beyond.”Three finalists – one small, one medium and one large town – will be chosen to produce detailed bids following the closing date of 31 March for expressions of interest.The government said the winner would be announced early next year.
