REDDITCH MP Chris Bloore has written to musician Harry Styles urging him to back the UK Town of Culture 2028 bid.
Mr Bloore has sent a letter to the singer, who was born at the Alexandra Hospital, asking him to back efforts to bring the title home to Redditch.
He said: “For young people here, he’s living proof you can go from Redditch to the world stage.
“From producing 90 per cent of the world’s needles to shaping music through legends like John Bonham and Harry, we’ve always punched above our weight.
“This is a once-in-a-generation chance to celebrate our heritage, creativity and future talent and show the country what makes Redditch truly special.”
The Town of Culture programme aims to spotlight the unique stories of local places, drive economic and social regeneration and create long-lasting cultural legacies.
The decision was made after partners from the Cultural Compact for North East Worcestershire held talks with council representatives to determine if it was felt an application would be viewed as credible.
A robust recommendation was made to proceed as it was felt Redditch, with the strong cultural role that it plays in North Worcestershire and further afield, would make a good candidate for the designation.
Mr Bloore added: “Town of Culture 2028 is our moment.
“It’s about showing the country what makes Redditch special and proving that towns like ours have a huge role to play in Britain’s cultural future.
“I’m proud to champion this bid in Parliament and I’ll keep shouting about everything that makes Redditch great at every opportunity. Together, we can bring it home.
“The UK Town of Culture programme recognises towns with strong cultural identity and ambition, helping to drive regeneration, tourism and community pride.”
If Redditch were to become the UK Town of Culture for 2028, it would mean a Government investment of £3million in the town to deliver a year-long festival of culture with national and international profile.
Three towns will be shortlisted as finalists for the designation of Town of Culture 2028 – one each of small, medium, and large towns. Due to the population of Redditch, the town would fall into the large category.
Two follow-up winners will each be awarded £250k to support cultural activity.
