Three new bids in City of Culture 2025 race

Derby, Gloucestershire and Conwy County have announced their intention to bid for UK City of Culture 2025.

Derby City Council hopes its bid "will act as a springboard for culture-led regeneration in the city".

Gloucester Culture Trust, coordinators of Gloucestershire's campaign, say they are aiming to "reflect Gloucestershire’s strong cultural calendar and wealth of creativity".

And Conwy County Borough Council said Wales' first entry into the 2025 competition will involve a "radical cultural programme" that is "community-based and authentically Welsh".

The Isle of Wight is considering joining Southampton's bid at a cost of £10,000. It would then contribute another £50,000 over the next five years if the bid succeeds.

Prospective candidates have until July 19 to contact DCMS with an expression of interest before a longlist is published in September.