The first UK Town of Culture shortlist has been announced. It lists Rotherham, Lerwick, the Isle of Bute, Leith, Pontypridd, Birkenhead and Strabane among the named towns. These join six other towns to make a combined of 13 places chosen from 400 applications.
The final title will be awarded in 2028. The winning town will receive a package of cultural investment and nationwide promotion. The competition seeks to enhance artistic expression and tourism throughout picked communities.