Wrexham’s bid to be named UK City of Culture 2029 is drawing support from across the city’s cultural life. From artists and choirs to a showcase in Parliament, the Wrecsam2029 campaign is gathering momentum. Winning would bring £10m in UK Government funding and an estimated £200m more in investment.
An Artist Leads the Way
Wrexham artist Liam Stokes-Massey has been named the latest Wrecsam2029 ambassador. He has been pivotal to the city’s culture as curator of the Public Art Trail. It has brought striking works by local artists to the streets across the city.
Several phases are already unveiled, including his own Wrexham Tailor’s Quilt, with more due later this year. The Trail will also feature in Wrexham’s official bid submission. The illustrator and muralist joins TV presenter Sian Lloyd and Wrexham AFC’s Lili Jones as ambassadors.
Stokes-Massey said the role meant a great deal. “Being able to celebrate Wrexham’s culture and heritage across the streets of Wrecsam makes me so proud.” “If Wrexham wins the bid, it can open a lot of doors for local people, including those in the creative scene.”
The Music Scene in Harmony
Wrexham’s wider music scene has rallied too, from venues and studios to solo artists. FOCUS Wales brings more than 250 artists to the city each year across its grassroots venues. Co-founder Neal Thompson, a Wrecsam2029 trustee, says it draws over 25,000 people and generates £1.2 million for the county.
Two of Wales’ most respected male voice choirs, Froncysyllte and Rhosllanerchrugog, have joined forces to back the bid. Both are steeped in the area’s industrial, linguistic and musical traditions. “Our choir has always believed in the power of music to bring people together and celebrate our shared heritage,” said Geraint Phillips of Rhos Male Voice Choir.
The choirs are exploring joint performances and events in the run-up to the decision. “Male voice choirs are a vital part of Wrexham’s culture, heritage and future,” said Morgan Thomas, Culture Bid Coordinator for Wrecsam2029. “As the only Welsh bid, we have a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Wales’ rich choral tradition on a national stage.”
Taking the Story to Westminster
The campaign also took Wrexham’s story to the Houses of Parliament on 19 May. The event formed part of the city’s “Year of Wonder” programme. It built on Wrexham’s recent longlisting for the title, the only place in Wales to make the cut.
It brought together businesses, investors, educators and community leaders before ministers, MPs and peers. Speakers included Wrexham MP Andrew Ranger, Secretary of State Jo Stevens and Bid Director Amanda Evans. Exhibitors ranged from Coleg Cambria and Wrexham University to manufacturers such as JCB.
“It was great to see so many people attend,” said Bid Director Amanda Evans. “It shows the partnerships that we have in Wrexham and helps us to show the ambition that we have.” “What we want to do now is give the people of Wrexham more to do, more to see, and more to be proud of.”
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