Culture Minister Visits Hull Ahead Of 2017

The Culture Minister has been in Hull to get an update on the city's plans for UK City of Culture 2017.

Ed Vaizey says it will bring investment and tourism to the region but will also show the whole the country how culture can help transform areas.

Today's being described as a major milestone as Yorkshire Water were revealed as the first corporate backer - Martin Green is Chief Exec of Hull City of Culture 2017

The Culture Minister has been in Hull on a day that's being described as a major milestone for City of Culture 2017.

Yorkshire water has been revealed as the first corporate partner - Hull 2017 is aiming to raise £18m towards funding the year long celebration of arts and culture.

He's also been given an update on the project - he's told Viking it will be hugely important.

Mr Vaizey said:

"I am delighted to announce that Yorkshire Water will be the first principal corporate partner for Hull, UK City of Culture 2017. This follows on from the company's sponsorship of the first Yorkshire Festival. Investing in local arts and culture is a fantastic way to boost the local economy, drive tourism and create a sense of local pride. I look forward to celebrating the great impact the UK City of Culture year will have on Hull for years to come."

Hul 2017 Chief Executive Martin Green says they're hoping to raise at least £18m worth of private investment to stage a transformative year of arts and culture on behalf of the whole of the UK.

So far, over 60% of its £18m funding target has been secured or committed. Martin said:

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Yorkshire Water on board as our first principal corporate supporter. As well as being part of a world-class festival that that will engage and inspire millions of people locally, nationally and internationally, they will also help to build a new future for Hull, where the power of culture is being harnessed to regenerate communities and transform the city.”