Merseyside town launches UK culture bid

A Merseyside town with Shakespearean connections that has been transformed with the arrival of independent businesses, bars and cafes in recent years has bid to become UK Town of Culture 2028.

Prescot, in Knowsley, has been put forward in the competition, which is open to towns across the UK and will see the winner receive £3m to deliver a cultural programme in summer 2028.

"The place is buzzing, the place is thriving," Leader of Knowsley Council Graham Morgan said.

"Prescot is such a special place – it has a wonderful and unique history and is at the heart of our cultural ambition for the borough," he said.

"We're really excited to develop this opportunity for Prescot to be crowned the Town of Culture, we know the positive power of cultural engagement, and this aligns perfectly with our ambition for the future of culture in Knowsley."

Speaking to BBC Radio Merseyside's Tony Snell, Morgan explained how the town had adapted to changes in shopping habits and closures of national chain stores.

"The small independent businesses are crucial for us now," he said.

"Small independent businesses and restaurants have made a big difference in Prescot.

"The town is going from strength to strength."

The town's Elizabethan connections and Shakespearean heritage led to the creation of the nationally acclaimed Shakespeare North Playhouse which opened in 2022.

It is also known around the world for its famous Safari Park the town is also home to 15th century Knowsley Hall, the ancestral home of the Earls of Derby.

Lord Derby, 19th Earl of Derby, has also pledged his support.

"Prescot is enjoying a cultural resurgence centred around the amazing, award-winning, Shakespeare North Playhouse, leading to an increased interest in the town with new outlets adding to the cluster," he said.

"It is fabulous to celebrate Shakespeare's historic presence in Knowsley, and the Playhouse has now welcomed around 400,000 visitors."

Lisa Allen, CEO and Creative Director at Shakespeare North Playhouse, said "community sits at the heart of everything we do."

"Prescot's story is not just about heritage or buildings, it's about the people, partnerships and creativity that bring this town to life every day," she said.

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