00:00The shortlist for UK Town of Culture 2028 is expected to be announced later this year,
00:06and Otley has officially thrown its hat into the ring.
00:09It builds on plans already underway to celebrate two of the most significant events in the town's history.
00:16The bid centres around Otley 800,
00:19a year-long programme that will mark the 800th anniversary of the granting of the Royal Market Charter in 1227
00:25and the construction of the bridge over the River Wharf in 1228.
00:30Together, these transformed Otley from a small settlement into a thriving market town,
00:35a legacy that continues to define the town today.
00:39Over the past two years, Otley Town Council and partners have been working with residents,
00:44community groups, schools, businesses and creatives to develop plans for the anniversary year.
00:50More than 70 organisations have already been engaged,
00:53helping to shape a programme designed to celebrate Otley's past while looking firmly to its future.
00:59The proposed programme includes opening and closing celebrations,
01:04a year of community-led events, a town-wide tapestry project
01:08and a pop-up museum to showcase the town's rich heritage.
01:12The Town of Culture bid also sets out longer-term ambitions,
01:16including finding a permanent home for Otley Museum and regenerating the Riverside area.
01:21If successful, Otley's Town of Culture year would shine a national spotlight on the town's history,
01:27creativity and strong community spirit.
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