New Brighton in Wirral has been left off the shortlist for the UK's first Town of Culture award, but locals are adamant the town is already a cultural hub. Around 400 towns expressed interest, with 15 advancing to receive £60,000 each to develop their bids.
Local Reactions
Rory Wilmer, director of New Brighton Creative Futures CIC, told the ECHO: "New Brighton is a town of culture. We don't need accolades or awards to prove that. The proof is here." He acknowledged the disappointment: "Of course it's disappointing because a lot of people put a lot of work and effort into the bid. It was a strong submission."
Residents echoed this sentiment. Ted Richardson, enjoying breakfast on Victoria Road, said: "It would have been really exciting to see what we could do with it. It would have done an awful lot for us." He added: "This is such a unique place that is full of characters. It's not over, I can only see the town getting better and better. I love our little home. It's amazing. Everyone should want to come."
Why New Brighton Was Overlooked
The Town of Culture award aims to replicate the success of the UK City of Culture, often boosting areas that have suffered economic decline. Wilmer noted: "We understand and appreciate why deprivation might be an element in the decision making."
Lucy Richardson of the New Brighton Partnership, which helped with the bid, said: "It would've been great. We are going to continue to do everything we can do make New Brighton amazing, but we already are a town of culture." She also voiced support for Birkenhead's bid: "If Birkenhead wins it'll have a knock-on effect on the whole of the Wirral."
A Thriving Town
Victoria Road, the town's bustling epicentre, is lined with bars, cafés, and independent shops, as well as murals celebrating local history. Anthony Wilcock, a resident of over 30 years, said: "There's no better place to spend a nice day."
