City of Culture long-list revealed

Nine places have been long-listed to be 2029's City of Culture.

Blackpool, Inverness-Highland, Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Milton Keynes, Portsmouth, Sheffield, Swindon and Wrexham will each receive a funding boost to support their bid.

Each shortlisted entry will receive £60,000 to develop a full application.

Previous winners have attracted millions of pounds in additional investment and thousands of visitors to their area, as well as generating new jobs.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: "For far too long, opportunity has not been shared equally across the country. The UK City of Culture and new UK Town of Culture competitions recognise the enormous contributions made by communities all over the UK who are all part of the story of who we are as a nation.

"I look forward to seeing what the nine longlisted places have in store as they progress in the competition. I also urge any towns thinking about entering the UK Town of Culture competition to seize this opportunity and get involved. It’s a chance to show the country what makes them unique and shine a spotlight on their cultural offer, enriching the lives of local people."