European boost to City of Culture bid

Durham’s bid to be the UK’s first City of Culture received an international boost today. (October 16)

Politicians and officials from County Durham’s partner area of Kreis Wesel pledged their backing to bring the prize to the North East.

Kreis Wesel, which is in north west Germany near to the border with the Netherlands, has been partnered with County Durham since 1953. The delegation of councillors and chief executive signed Back the Bid postcards when they visited the Town Hall in Durham City today.

The party are in the county to look at problem solving projects run by Durham County Council in relation to community safety and developing skills in young people to meet the demands of the job market.

“We were also keen to hear all about the county’s bid to win the City of Culture prize in 2013 and after hearing a presentation by the bid team were more than happy to offer our support and sign up,” said Kreisdirektor, Ralf Berensmeier.

During their stay the group visited projects in Barnard Castle, Easington and Newton Aycliffe as well as Durham City.