Stockport was today named Greater Manchester's Town of Culture for 2023 in a ceremony at the Hat Museum.

The title comes in recognition of the growing creative scene, as well as the series of regeneration projects happening across the town. It also means Stockport will receive extra funding to go towards such projects.

Councillor Mark Hunter - recently re-elected as leader of Stockport Council - was present at the ceremony, as was the award-winning Stockport band, Blossoms, who themselves are largely credited as having a huge impact in the creative case for the town.

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham was also present, stating: "The town put forward a really strong case for the accolade, backed up by some really exciting plans for events and activities that celebrate Stockport's identity, its history, but also shine a spotlight on everything that's happening now."

Cllr Hunter also said: "Stockport has a rich cultural history, and I'm delighted that we have been recognised in this way.

"This is a great opportunity to showcase the fantastic arts and culture that we have in the town and to bring people together."

In the council meeting today where Cllr Hunter was elected leader, he also added: "I am proud that this accolade has come to Stockport, and of all the work that has been done by a vast number of people to get us over the line.

"I am sure, given the plans that we already have in hand, that we will make a great success of it."

At the same council meeting today, Stockport Labour leader Cllr David Meller was similarly optimistic about the development of the town, likening the Underbanks to a 'new Northern Quarter'.

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