Kirkby Lonsdale has joined other Cumbrian towns in bidding to become the UK Town of Culture for 2028.
The winner of the competition is awarded £3 million with the two runners-up receiving £250,000 each.
If Kirkby Lonsdale were to become the UK Town of Culture for 2028, it would become the first ever winner of the competition.
The government only launched the UK Town of Culture competition in January as a vehicle to showcase what towns across the nation have to offer.
Kendal is also submitting a bid.
“They have shaped our national story for decades,” said Lisa Nandy, the Culture Secretary, talking about the importance of towns in the national consciousness.
“Now it’s time they take centre stage and showcase the unique stories they have to tell,” she added.
Kirkby Lonsdale’s entry into the competition comes after Kendal launched its bid last month.
Reacting to the Kirkby Lonsdale town of culture bid, a spokesperson for its Town Council said that it ‘fully supports’ the application.
The spokesperson continued: “Kirkby Lonsdale Market Town is a great place to live, work, shop and stay, establishing itself as a destination venue for beauty, walking, shopping, dining, vacations and many other activities."
“The Town maintains its Victorian appearance whilst blending modernity into its infrastructure without spoiling its attraction.
“Achieving the UK Town of Culture 2028 would recognise the planning and work that has enabled the Town to remain popular, and the funding would enable the Town to further develop whilst keeping its identity in the future.”
The UK Town of Culture comes after the success of the UK City of Culture competition.
Towns across the country have until March 31 to enter an expression of interest.
Shortlisted towns will then receive £60,000 each to contribute to their full bids.
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