WOLVERHAMPTON, WEST MIDLANDS - UK: 17:05PM, THURSDAY JULY 22ND 2021

“I am absolutely delighted and excited, at today's news that the Wolverhampton Cultural Compact; representing a cross-sector of organisations, will be seeking to make this City of Opportunity the next UK City Of Culture in 2025!

To call the City of Wolverhampton my home, makes me full of deep pride - as a result of the extraordinary transformation it has seen in recent years and thanks to our heritage, which really makes us special.

From places including The Grand Theatre, Molineux, Monmore Green, The Light House, Civic Halls, The Art Gallery, Wightwick Manor, Bantock House and even "The Man On The Oss" - to our superstars including Liam Payne, Beverley Knight, Hugh Porter, Radzi Chinyanganya, Suzi Perry, Trevor Gadd, Denise Lewis ,Robert Plant, Baroness Helene Hayman, Tessa Sanderson, Nigel Slater, Sarah Clarke, Mervyn King , Caitlin Moran and the late Rachael Hayhoe-Flint, Jack Taylor, and Sir Jack Hayward; all symbolises the spectacular depth of talent who we have produced.

With over £4 Billion of investment happening and lined up, our Football and Speedway Teams flying the flag magnificently, a diverse and young population and places as above mentioned, Wolverhampton feels primed and ready to further show ourselves to the world.

With the aim of going big on Events, Music, Creativity and Digital, we have a platform to make prime use of and with support from across the region, can make 2025 one of our most unique years ever.

Many people may have mocked this city previously, but with change happening and a rich history being created, OUR TIME IS NOW and I look forward with all my heart, to supporting what will be a bid that reflects who we are and creating a legacy to be fully proud of!"