The winner of UK Town of Culture 2028 will receive £3 million to deliver a major cultural programme throughout that year.
The prize would boost economic growth and opportunity in Hartlepool, celebrate its culture and creativity, as well as giving more people the chance to engage with the arts.
Councillor Graham Harrison, leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “Hartlepool has a proud history, a vibrant cultural offer and, above all, a strong sense of community. Our bid to become UK Town of Culture 2028 is a fantastic opportunity to showcase everything that makes our borough unique and to celebrate the creativity, talent and ambition of our residents.”
A digital postcard – “An Alien’s Guide to Hartlepool: A Town of Culture” – launched the bid when it landed on the official UK Town of Culture map.
Created by Milo, a student from The Northern School Of Art, it explores Hartlepool’s people, places and spaces through the eyes of an intergalactic visitor.
Cllr Harrison added: “The digital postcard celebration is another chance to share Hartlepool’s story with the rest of the country.
I would encourage everyone to take a look at our postcard, share it with friends and family, and get behind our bid as we continue our journey towards becoming UK Town of Culture 2028.”
Readers can view Hartlepool’s postcard and the national map at https://tinyurl.com/hpooltownofculture.
Hartlepool joins other North East towns Stockton, Middlesbrough, Bishop Auckland, Stanley, Shildon and Barnard Castle bidding for the title.
Bookmakers have given Hartlepool odds of 16/1, behind favourites Dorking, in Surrey on 4/6, Whitby 3/1, and Berwick-Upon-Tweed 9/1.
Author: Ian
Reporter and author of Pop Life, covering all things news, music and local events.