Airport bosses back city status bid

A BID to win city status for Doncaster in the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee year has been given the backing of an airport boss who said it would help drive tourism in the region.

By The Newsroom

Published 21st Dec 2011, 06:00 BST

Steve Gill, who took over from previous Robin Hood Airport director Mike Morton earlier this year, became the latest figure in the town to back the bid when he made the announcement yesterday.

He said: “After only a few months in charge it is clear to see that this is a place with ambition and an area filled with possibility.

“It would be fantastic to see Doncaster City on the destination screens at the airports we serve across Europe.”

The bid has already been backed by actor Brian Blessed and Labour leader and local MP Ed Miliband.

Doncaster is competing against other towns, including Middlesbrough, Blackpool and Croydon, for city status with an announcement expected early in 2012.

Mr Gill added: “The town has rich history and a real buzz about it.

“It is a difficult time for businesses at the moment but there is a clear passion and drive for people to work together to get beyond this economic period.”