Southampton named as finalist in bid for UK City of Culture 2025
The city has made the last eight in the contest
Southampton has been named among eight cities in a contest to become the UK's next City of Culture.
The city will be handed £40,000 to develop its full application for the prestigious prize.
Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries said the focus of the competition this time around was "levelling up access to culture across the country" as the longlisted entries in the race were revealed.
Some 20 areas put bids forward but only Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Bradford, Cornwall, County Durham, Derby, Southampton, Stirling and Wrexham County Borough will battle it out to become UK City of Culture 2025, taking over the accolade from Coventry.
Ms Dorries said: "Winning the UK City of Culture competition has a hugely positive impact on an area, driving investment, creating jobs, and highlighting that culture is for everyone, regardless of their background.
"This year's focus is on levelling up access to culture across the country and making sure there is a legacy that continues for generations to come. I look forward to seeing what this brilliant longlist has in store as they continue in the competition."
A shortlist will be announced early next year and the winner will be revealed in May
Claire Whitaker, Southampton 2025 UK City of Culture bid director said: "We are delighted with the news today that Southampton has been chosen to go through to the next stage of the bid to be UK City of Culture 2025.
"The way that Southampton has come together to get behind our bid is unprecedented for our city, and I want to thank everyone for their belief and unwavering support.
"We now move forward with confidence and optimism to the next chapter of our story to become UK City of Culture in 2025."
All the bids were asked to include information on how they intended to use culture to recover from the coronavirus pandemic, as well as how they would use culture to grow and strengthen their local area.
Daniel Fitzhenry, leader of Southampton City Council and Southampton 2025 UK City of Culture trustee, said: "I am absolutely thrilled with the news today that we have made it to the next stage of the UK City of Culture 2025 bidding process.
"We are a city of opportunity, and culture is so important in fostering our sense of identity and pride in place.
"As seen with other winning cities, UK City of Culture status brings with it huge economic and social benefits, and I am really excited as we move forward with our eyes firmly on the prize for Southampton.
"Culture is vital to encourage more visitors to the city and create economic growth which is a key part of our plans to get Southampton moving."