The Government is launching a new Town of Culture competition to celebrate the cultural legacies of UK towns.

Following the success of the City of Culture contest, the Government has announced that the new scheme has been inspired by this ‘proven model for cultural placemaking’ and is designed to ‘spotlight the cultural contribution of towns to our national story’.

In a statement last week, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, confirmed that the best small, medium and large towns will be chosen from the pool of applicants, with the winner to be selected early next year.

The successful finalist will win £3m, while the two runners up are to receive £250,000 each to support them in providing an ‘ambitious programme of cultural activity’ that year.

As part of its aims for the UK-wide programme, the Government has highlighted its intention to create a ‘more socially cohesive country’ with an enhanced sense of local pride.

Bidders can submit expressions of interest until March 31 this year, with shortlisted applicants to be announced in the spring.

Among the areas set to enter the content, Coalville and Ashby-de-la-Zouch have reportedly expressed interest in leading bids, according to the BBC.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: ‘There is so much for us to be proud of in the towns we’re from - from the rich, local history to unique festivals and celebrations. They have shaped our national story for decades. Now it’s time they take centre stage and showcase the unique stories they have to tell.  

‘We have seen the transformative power of culture through the UK City of Culture competition. I want to make sure that towns have the same opportunity to make a real difference to their local community and show the world exactly why their town is so special.’