Could three towns be better than one in culture bid?

Three Dorset towns are breaking the mould as they run together for UK Town of Culture 2028.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) is the only collective to enter the running for the new title launched by the government.

Where other local authorities have competing towns wanting to take the honour, Dorset has opted to showcase that "three unique places are stronger together".

BCP Council described their towns as "vibrant, varied and uniquely our own" and hopes to win the bid which comes with a £3m funding prize.

Expressions of interest must be submitted by the end of March, with the winning town or towns chosen by early 2027.

The bid in Dorset aims to highlight the creativity, community connection and local pride in each town.

Part of showcasing creativity across the BCP region includes the Arts by the Sea Festival, which will be held again this year after being awarded funding.

Last year, the event in Bournemouth saw more than 150 performers including live music, a circus, aerial art and large-scale installations.

The festival currently forms part of BCP's Town of Culture bid, along with the Boscombe Emerging Arts Fringe and Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.

Organisers in BCP said they want to build a legacy for the three towns to become a cultural hub for future generations.

Councillor Andy Martin, culture chief, said: "The arts and culture play a vital role in supporting people's health and wellbeing, helping us feel more connected, confident and able to thrive.

"Culture is the thread that links our three towns, and as someone proud to call this place home, I know just how much our communities have to offer.

"This is an amazing opportunity to highlight the work we already do together, open doors for new audiences and make creativity easier for everyone to access—building something that lasts well beyond 2028."