'˜Join the 2017 club' urges Mandelson

Lord Mandelson, who is High Steward of Hull, will address around 100 business leaders at an event at the University of Hull.

In the run up to the city’s bid to become City of Culture, 22 businesses pledged £17,000 each.

Chief executive of Hull 2017 Martin Green said more companies could now come onboard and become “a vital part of the 2017 story”. He said: “Our business people have long been telling us they want more ways to become more involved with City of Culture. Business Club is a partnership package with mutual benefits at a time when the eyes of the world will be on Hull.”