A tale of two cities of culture
Being named European Capital of Culture can reap big rewards but bidding for it isn't cheap. Bristol said no but Truro is all for it
Bristol is OUT but Truro is IN the race to be named European Capital of Culture 2023.
Despite his pre-election plans for Bristol to be in the running for the title -Mayor Marvin Rees has had to cancel the bid.
The prize carries the promise of a huge economic boost in investment and tourism but the prospect of shelling out hundreds of thousands of pounds is a big risk.
The mayor says it's too much to pay at a time the city is facing massive budget cuts and the insecurity of Brexit.
Truro, on the other hand has decided to take the plunge. Cornwall Councillors have voted 8 to 1 in favour of going for the competition.
It means spending more than half a million pounds to bid for Truro to be European Capital of Culture in 2023. But if it gets through it should reap the reward of jobs, investment and a major economic boost.
The city is famous for its annual Festival of Lights as well as other cultural aspects - but crucial to its bid is that it will be allowed to include surrounding towns. It means it will also be able to include attractions like the Eden Project and Falmouth harbour in its application.
Also in the running are Leeds, Milton Keynes and Dundee. 2023 may seem a long way away but the European Commission has already chosen, or is in the process of choosing, the capitals of culture up to that point.