Despite its rich tradition of arts & culture and its multi ethnic population, Southampton has never had the recognition that larger Cities such as Liverpool, Manchester & Birmingham for instance have enjoyed. Now that could well be about to change.

Although it cannot boast such a rich culture as the major cities named above, Southampton has always has a varied and interesting cultural side of things, whether that be the Caribbean influences of the West Indian community, the traditions of those who settled in the City from the Indian Sub Continent, the long standing Irish community or the Polish who first settled after World War 2 and again came in the 1990's.

Likewise although the City never produced a group as big as the Beatles or in more modern times The Stone Roses, it can also take pride in the large number of musicians who have found fame both locally & nationally be it the likes of Craig David or The Men They Couldn't Hang, or even those who have left the City and found fame in bands founded elsewhere such as Will Champion of Coldplay or Justin Young of The Vaccines.

But this could soon change with the news that Southampton has reached the final four for the title of UK City Of Culture 2025.

It has been named alongside Bradford, County Durham and Wrexham County Borough as a finalist for the prestigious title, which if gained would bring not only the spotlight on the city, but the benefit of investment in it's entertainment scene, not to mention bringing in thousands of tourists.

Southampton Football Club declared its support for the bid last year, and figures connected to the club, including captain James Ward-Prowse, became Southampton 2025 ambassadors.

Claire Whitaker OBE, Southampton 2025 UK City of Culture Bid Director, said: "We owe a huge debt of gratitude to so many people for the achievement of winning a place on this shortlist. Three years of sustained work and thousands of people supporting us — not just in the communities of Southampton but across the wider Solent region.

"The bid has brought the city together, embracing the world of creators, children and young people, artists, academics, businesses and civic leaders. This is a moment of celebration for all of us."

With the winner due to be announced later this year, you can find out more about the city’s bid to become the 2025 UK City of Culture, including how you can get involved, by visiting the Southampton 2025 website using the link below.

https://southampton2025.co.uk/

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