Activities are to continue at this year’s City of Culture Bradford for a further two years to create a ‘lasting legacy’ for the area.

Bradford Council says over the next two years it will focus on ‘turning an exceptional year into long-term benefit by supporting the cultural sector to grow’ as well as ensure the city attracts ‘investment, talent and opportunity for many years to come’.

This will see council owned museums, libraries, market and sports facilities work with Bradford Culture Company, the charity that has been running City of Culture events this year.

The council has also confirmed continued funding for local cultural organisations and a community capital grant scheme has been announced. This offers funding of between £5,000 and £50,000 to organisations to support the delivery of cultural and sports activities in the area.

‘We’re determined to make the most of the energy, pride and partnerships this year has generated,’ said Bradford Council leader Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe.

‘Being UK City of Culture has gained us national and international attention. A successful legacy must now convert this into delivering further regeneration and growth so our communities can thrive.’

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has welcomed the continuation of events in the city, saying ‘I hope to see Bradford go from strength to strength after a fantastic year of events and ensure their year in the spotlight has a lasting legacy that everyone across the district can benefit from’.

During its year as City of Culture Bradford, it attracted 22.6 million viewers via BBC coverage of events. It is estimated that 1.1 million people attended activities, which more than 40,000 residents took part in.

The events were also supported by more than 2,000 volunteers.