The University of Warwick is backing the city of Coventry as it looks to make a bid to become UK City of Culture in 2021.

It was announced on Tuesday (16 June) that a steering group of local figures from business and culture had recommended the city should enter the running for the title.

The steering group includes Warwick’s Registrar and Chief Operating Officer Ken Sloan, who said: “The University of Warwick is delighted that the city of Coventry is gearing up to bid to be named UK City of Culture in 2021. This would be an extraordinary opportunity for the city and the wider area and the University will play an active part in helping to make this a reality. The engagement of universities has been an important feature of previous City of Culture bids and through our Warwick Arts Centre, our vibrant student body and our excellent academic departments we will offer every support to the bid team.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Nigel Thrift added: “The University of Warwick makes a major contribution to the cultural life of the area. Earlier this year the University concluded a year-long Warwick Commission on the future of Cultural Value. The Commission canvassed the views of cultural leaders across the country and a number of events brought together arts organisations in the city and the region. Building on the city’s many success stories, including its two universities, the City of Culture represents a once in a life time opportunity to transform the image of Coventry and Warwickshire.”

Notes to Editors:

Issued by Lee Page, Communications Manager at The University of Warwick. Tel: +44 (0)2476 574 255. Mob: +44 (0)7920 531 221. Email: l.page@warwick.ac.uk.

Thursday 18 June 2015 PR 125

Contact:

Lee Page

Communications Manager, University of Warwick

Tel: +44 (0)2476 574 255

Mob: +44 (0)7920 531 221

Email: l.page@warwick.ac.uk