Southend launches bid for City Status
It's part of The Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations
Can Southend earn City Status?
The town officially launches its bid for the title this afternoon (18 September), with dedicated social media accounts and a new website being unveiled.
The Queen will be awarded City Status to towns as part of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations next year.
Sir David Amess MP, James Duddridge MP, members of the Southend City Status Committee, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council representatives, The Mayor of Southend Cllr Margaret Borton and the Town Crier Keith Davidson will all attend the launch event later.
Sir David said:
“If there is any justice, and if this is a fair competition, then Southend will be successful in its bid to become a city. Why do I say that?
"Southend is unique and city status would provide long overdue recognition of what we have to offer. The longest pleasure pier in the world, a huge wealth of local talent in the arts and culture industries and a centre of educational excellence, are just a few of the things that make Southend special.
"I am absolutely delighted that our bid is being launched today, led by the local authority and with our Town Crier encouraging residents to get behind the bid."