Grimsby has taken a major step towards becoming the UK’s next Town of Culture after being officially shortlisted for the inaugural award.
The announcement is a proud moment for the town, recognising the passion and creativity shown by residents, community groups, artists, businesses and organisations across Grimsby. The town is one of 15 shortlisted from 398 applications.
The successful application was shaped through months of engagement and collaboration, led by Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes MP Melanie Onn alongside James Trowsdale, Mark Webb, Charlotte Bowen, Chris Carr, Lucy Ottewell-Key, Paula Denton, Julie Walmsley, Francesca Young and the wider bid team.
Together they have put forward a case that showcases Grimsby’s heritage, cultural scene and the people who make the town special. The application focused particularly on promoting culture for young people, with Horizon Youth Zone acting as the anchor organisation.
Since the campaign began nine months ago, it has grown into a community-wide movement, with hundreds of people getting involved and sharing their pride in the town.
Melanie Onn MP said: “Today is a hugely proud day for Grimsby. Being shortlisted for UK Town of Culture is a fantastic achievement and recognition of everything that makes our area so special.
“When I first spoke publicly about the idea nine months ago, I could never have imagined how much it would capture people’s imagination.
“When I drive around town and see businesses with Town of Culture posters in their window, it never fails to make me smile. People here are so passionate about their town, and rightly so. This is a town that is on the up, we have so many things happening, and it’s really exciting!
“A huge amount of credit has to go to Horizon Youth Zone in particular. The application focused a lot on promoting culture for young people and Horizon are a really key part of that.
“This shortlist is a significant milestone, but there is still work to do. Over the coming months, we will continue developing our full bid, listening to residents and organisations across the town, and making the strongest possible case for why Grimsby deserves this national recognition.”
