Wrecsam2029 continues to build momentum in its bid for UK City of Culture 2029. Fresh backing has arrived from a leading local artist and Wrexham’s rich heritage sector.
A New Voice for the Bid
Wood sculptor Simon O’Rourke has joined Wrecsam2029 as an official ambassador. Consequently, he adds his voice to a growing list. Also, that list includes Sian Lloyd, Wrexham AFC’s Lili Jones and muralist Liam Stokes-Massey. O’Rourke’s giant WRECSAM letters were unveiled outside the Old Library in February. Indeed, they were commissioned to reflect the county’s cultural identity. Today, they form part of the city’s wider public art trail.
O’Rourke said the bid was an amazing opportunity to show what a solid community Wrexham has. “I’ve lived here for more than half my life now, and have seen the place change and grow because of people who care about their home,” he said. Furthermore, he praised the city’s diverse and talented creative scene. He called it proactive in making Wrexham a vibrant and exciting place to live.
Wrexham is currently longlisted for the title. Winning it could unlock £10 million in UK Government funding. As a result, this would support regeneration projects and strengthen the city’s arts and culture scene. A decision is expected later this year.
Heritage Sector Adds Its Support
Following backing from the arts, music and sports sectors, Wrexham’s heritage organisations have now added their voice too. Notably, these include St Giles’ Church and Stori Brymbo. Wendy Hett of Wrexham Miners Project said the city’s greatest asset has always been the people who call it home. She pointed to weekly classes, guided tours and education programmes that build a genuine sense of belonging.
Karl Hargrave of Visit Wrexham said winning the title would drive tourism, create jobs and improve infrastructure. Meanwhile, Lizzie Champion of the National Trust called the bid a transformative opportunity. She said it would revitalise important heritage sites across the county.
The family Photomarathon returns on Saturday 22nd August. It gives people of all ages three hours to capture photographs inspired by four mystery words. The event is free to enter and open to anyone aged six to 100. Organisers Done Together CIC deliver the Wrecsam2029 Youth Forum on behalf of the City of Culture bid team. Therefore, further details and booking information are available at tickettailor.com.
Together, these endorsements reflect a bid that now spans nearly every sector of Wrexham life. Consequently, organisers say the breadth of support strengthens the city’s case as it approaches the shortlist announcement. Should the bid succeed, ambassadors believe the impact would be felt for generations, not just during the City of Culture year itself.
Also, anyone keen to get involved can follow the campaign’s progress at wrecsam2029.wales. Meanwhile, the wider community is encouraged to attend events such as the Photomarathon to show their support in person. Organisers say every entry, however small, adds to the sense of momentum building behind Wrexham’s bid.
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