'Capital of the Wolds' vyes for Town of Culture

Driffield has announced it is vying to become the first UK Town of Culture in 2028.

The town council confirmed it was submitting a bid based on its heritage as the "Capital of the Wolds".

It joins Bridlington and Pocklington in the race for the title which will see the winner awarded £3m to run a cultural programme, while the other two finalists will each receive £250,000 for events.

A council document said Driffield was a contender because UK Town of Culture "is designed to spotlight towns with distinctive identities".

The report adds that "Driffield's blend of rural culture, local history and community pride provides a compelling narrative".

It highlights the town's market, canal, annual agricultural show and local traditions such as the centuries-old scrambling event in which local shopkeepers throw sweets to children on New Year's Day.

Councillor Mark Blakeston said Driffield boasted "an unbelievable culture".

"We've got a great story to tell, and I just think it's a fantastic opportunity, even if we don't progress, to showcase all the wonderful things and the sense of community we've got here," he said.

He said the town could also lay claim to some notable people, including Benjamin Fawcett, a renowned 19th Century English wood-engraver and printer, as well as archaeologist John Mortimer.

"Beyond that, if you ask anybody about Driffield anywhere in the world they would probably say it is fantastic for rugby or cricket."

Mark Edwards, owner of ladies and gentlemen outfitters Alec W.G. Hall, said it was an opportunity to showcase "all the wonderful things that go on in Driffield".

Edwards, who is also the chair of Driffield Town Centre Steering Group, added: "Driffield is known as the Capital of the Wolds, but I've always said it should be known as the capital of the world. It's perfect.

"You can get everything you want in Driffield, you don't need to go anywhere else. It's a great place to have a family. There are wonderful schools and so many things to do, entertainment and great pubs. Whatever you want, it's here."

Andy Rafters, owner of Rafters grocery store, said the town was a great place to live and work.

"It's a town full of independent shops, and that's becoming a little bit rare these days," he said.

"It's a friendly place."

He said although investment was needed in some areas of the town it "wasn't far off being perfect".

Winning the competition could help make it "something really special", he added.

Natalie Waudby, owner of the Butcher's Dog micropub, said she was delighted the town was bidding for the accolade.

"Driffield has got masses of history and I can't see why we can't be a great contender," she said. "It's a great community place."

Winning the title would boost the town's profile and encourage more visitors to the area, she added.

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