Nuneaton’s campaign to become the UK’s Town of Culture 2028 draws its inspiration from local residents themselves, who provided both the content and creative vision for the town’s submission.
The community is among hundreds of areas nationwide vying for the inaugural title after the government announced the competition earlier this year. Entrants were required to submit a postcard representing their region, and the Nuneaton entry, titled Greetings from Nuneaton, incorporates photographs and designs produced entirely by inhabitants.
Nuneaton BID, the organisation driving the town’s participation, hosted a gathering on June 13 where residents spanning all age groups contributed personal stories, artwork and celebrated their favourite aspects of the area. This community activity formed the basis for the postcard’s development.
According to the BID, the postcard showcases the enthusiasm, imagination and local pride that characterised the event, while representing the perspectives shared by the community. The organisation expressed gratitude to all who participated in shaping this distinctive element of Nuneaton’s narrative, stating that collective effort has demonstrated what makes the town an exceptional place to reside, operate businesses and explore.
The postcard appears on a digital map displaying submissions from communities throughout the nation. The Nuneaton entry promotes the Warwickshire town as a welcoming destination that takes pride in its connections to author George Eliot, its active marketplace, cultural activities, communal celebrations and surrounding parks and open areas. The text describes the area as combining historical significance with contemporary living, where heritage, culture and approachable residents combine to offer visitors a noteworthy experience. The message concludes with warm regards from the town.
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport will select three contenders across different population categories before announcing an overall victor. The successful applicant will receive the UK Town of Culture 2028 designation along with prize funding of £3 million, while both runners-up will obtain £250,000 each to implement aspects of their proposals, ranging from upgraded community facilities to environmentally-friendly music events.