Paisley loses out to Coventry in bid to be UK City of Culture 2021

PAISLEY has missed out on being named UK City of Culture 2021.

The Renfrewshire town’s bid lost out to Coventry, it was announced this evening.

Arts Minister John Glen revealed the winner on this evening’s edition of The One Show.

Paisley has just missed out on being crowned #UKCityofCulture2021.
We want to thank all Buddies for their incredible support over the past 2 years and for backing #Paisley2021 pic.twitter.com/6WhG3md4mU

— Paisley 2021 (@Paisley2021) December 7, 2017

The bid team tweeted: “The bid was always one part of a wider plan to raise the profile of the town & work will continue to do this. Watch this space – this journey will continue!”

The Scottish Government’s Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “Paisley’s bid journey has been inspiring‎. Beginning two years ago with hundreds of people gathered at the picturesque Paisley Abbey for the official launch.

“Since then businesses, cultural and community groups have thrown their support behind the town’s ambitions. A real strength has been the extensive community engagement with more than 30,000 people involved. All helping put together an outstanding bid for Paisley and for Scotland.

“Despite just missing out they can all be immensely proud of their efforts, they have done Paisley and Scotland proud and there is much to build upon.”

Scottish Secretary David Mundell said: “The Paisley team showed enormous energy, dedication and determination in showcasing all the positive things about their community. Indeed, it was a fantastic achievement in itself for Scotland’s largest town to come so close to becoming City of Culture.

“I know they will be disappointed, and I share that disappointment. But I also know that they have achieved so much during the bidding process and will continue their drive to boost tourism, create opportunities and lay the foundations for a bright future for Paisley.”