MP backs Whitby’s ‘storyland’ bid to be first Town of Culture in UK

Both Scarborough and Whitby are vying to be the first Town of Culture in a crowded field of entries from across the county.

​The competition, announced by the Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy last autumn, will provide a platform for communities to “tell their own unique story and shine a spotlight on the vital role towns play in our national life”.

Alison Hume, the MP for Scarborough and Whitby, said: “Whitby is a small town, but it has a gigantic story to tell.

“Whitby already draws in huge numbers of tourists every year for the famous Goth Weekends, Musicport and Folk festivals and countless other cultural events, so it seems fitting that the town that inspired Bram Stoker to write Dracula throws its top hat in the ring.”

​The strongest bids will progress to a shortlist, with each shortlisted town receiving £60,000 to help deliver their full bids for the competition.

​Three finalists – one small, one medium, one large town – will be chosen. The winner will be crowned UK Town of Culture 2028 and receive a £3 million prize, meaning that both Scarborough and Whitby could be shortlisted in the medium and small town categories, respectively.

Seven organisations, including Flash Company Arts, are currently fronting Whitby’s case, which is themed ‘Storyland’.

Ms Hume, who received BAFTA and Royal Television Society awards for her work as a screenwriter before being elected to represent the constituency two years ago, said: “Whitby lives and breathes culture.

“It is a breathtakingly beautiful town which has inspired countless writers, artists, musicians and other creatives over the years, many of whom are woven into the town’s cultural community.

“The town’s maritime history as a shipbuilding and whaling port, as well as the port where Captain Cook learnt his craft, is unmatched in a small town.

“Who knows, 2028 could be the year Whitby residents can share how proud they are of where they live, and thousands of new visitors can experience our warm and inclusive Whitby welcome?”

Commenting on Scarborough’s entry, Ms Hume said: “Scarborough has an irresistible story to tell as the birthplace of theatre in the round, the first English seaside resort and the home of an incredibly rich arts, heritage, music and cultural scene. I’m really excited about our chances.”

​The deadline for expressions of interest for UK Town of Culture 2028 is March 31, with the shortlist of towns expected to be announced this Spring.

Scarborough’s town mayor ​Cllr Thomas Murray said: “I’m fully behind Scarborough’s bid to become UK Town of Culture 2028.

​“It’s a great opportunity to bring the community together and celebrate all the things that make Scarborough great, as well as showcase some of our cultural hidden gems.”

Rebecca Denniff, of Flash Company Arts, said: “Whitby is an amazing place to live and work, surrounded by magnificent moorland and wild seas.

“It’s a tiny town that has had a massive impact on the whole world – from the Synod of Easter all the way to its global association with Goth culture through Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

“But we need to show that we are so much more than our amazing history.

“Whitby is a place where so many stories converge; it’s an immersive experience in waiting.”