00:00Gateshead and Blythe join North Shields, Bishop Auckland and Berwick-upon-Tweed in competing for the Town of Culture 2028
00:09award.
00:10Gateshead Council highlighted 2028 as marking the 30th anniversary of the Angel of the North and the Tyne Bridge centenary.
00:19The bridge is currently undergoing restoration and councillors say the bid reflects local ambition, pride and community spirit.
00:27Blythe Town Council emphasised its industrial, renewable and creative heritage, noting the Town's recent visibility during the Festival of Energy.
00:38Mayor David Swinho described Blythe as combining historic achievements with future potential in renewable energy.
00:47Towns have until 31st March to submit expressions of interest.
00:52Three finalists, one small, one medium and one large town, will be shortlisted and receive £60,000 to support full
01:01bids.
01:02The overall winner will be awarded £3 million, with two runners-up each receiving £250,000.
01:10The process aims to strengthen regional cultural engagement, support grassroots groups and ensure national recognition for local creativity.
01:19Both councils described their applications as ambitious, focused on community involvement and designed to attract national attention.
