Yes to culture. But the whole nation needs a boost, not just our cities | Phil Redmond

Yes to culture. But the whole nation needs a boost, not just our cities | Phil Redmond:

Some people call for a town of culture award, but smaller communities should be able to benefit too

• Phil Redmond is chair of the UK City of Culture independent advisory panel, and a TV screenwriter who created Brookside and Hollyoaks

Another year over, a new one just begun, sang one of Liverpool’s great songsmiths. And with each one that passes, a new anniversary is formed. Last year was significant for me, as it was not just the 40th anniversary of Grange Hill but also the 10th anniversary of what will, probably, soon be known as the UK’s one and only European capital of culture.

This year will mark a decade since, having seen the impact on Liverpool, I suggested and began shepherding the UK city of culture project. Last week the Labour MP Yvette Cooper suggested there should be a town of culture award to sit alongside it.

Continue reading…

from The Guardian http://bit.ly/2Tumppb
from Tumblr http://bit.ly/2Fa8KAu