A lot of towns have suffered a decline over the past few decades. High streets have been abandoned, socio-economic problems have taken hold and people living in towns feel forgotten.

That need not be the case and it is high time that towns got their confidence back. Therefore the first ever UK Town of Culture competition is to be welcomed.

Scarborough and Halifax are amongst the names being mentioned, both would be worthy recipients of the title and the funding that goes with it.

The region has seen first hand how significant of a role culture can play in giving places a leg up.

The Brighter Still performance as part of the Bradford City of Culture last year. PIC: Simon Hulme

placeholder image — The Brighter Still performance as part of the Bradford City of Culture last year. PIC: Simon Hulme

City of Culture was a roaring success in Bradford last year and the district is straining at the leash to capitalise on its legacy.

Culture is not just a celebration of the arts. It can be a huge economic driver, bringing visitors in from across the world. Culture also has the power to bring communities together and strengthen a place’s sense of pride.

Bradford is projected to benefit from £389m in growth across the district, with city centre footfall up 25 per cent during its year in the spotlight.

Rotherham has also benefitted after it became the world's first Children's Capital of Culture in 2025. You could not help but be inspired by the project designed and led by children and young people in the town.

Culture is a real strength of Yorkshire and this is another opportunity for the region to impress the world with its offering. Whichever town is successful from our region, it deserves Yorkshire’s full support.