Hitchin submits postcard poem in UK Town of Culture 2028 bid

The application was submitted through a digital postcard created by Visit Hitchin and Hitchin Creative and sent to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

Town centre manager, Danny Pearson, said: "Our postcard image celebrates this pride – a locally written poem framed amongst flowers in the heart of the town.

Visit Hitchin and Hitchin Creative have submitted a digital postcard to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (Image: Visit Hitchin)

"In Hitchin, creativity belongs to everyone: it lives in our streets, markets, festivals and shared experiences.

"Hitchin is proud of its rich cultural life, creative community and heritage, combining historic charm with a vibrant cultural scene shaped by local artists, independent businesses, performers, volunteers and residents.

"We celebrate culture not only through events and creativity, but through the people who make Hitchin unique.

"UK Town of Culture would help celebrate Hitchin’s identity, strengthen community pride and inspire future generations."

Hitchin town centre (Image: Visit Hitchin)

The national competition offers a £3.5 million prize to the winning town to deliver a major cultural programme in 2028.

Shortlisted bids will receive £60,000 to develop their plans.

Hitchin will compete against Letchworth which announced its bid back in February.

Danny concluded: "We are extremely excited to be involved and to give Hitchin the platform and recognition we know it deserves."

For more information on Hitchin’s UK Town of Culture 2028 competition, visit www.hitchincreative.com and www.visithitchin.com.