Middlesbrough’s youngsters have been writing letters to the Queen in an aim to win city status for their town.
Primary school pupils have been posting the letters to try to support the bid for city status. The Queen will choose one town to become a city during her Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012.
Mayor Ray Mallon, who has visited the schools to hear why children want their town to be a city, said: “Middlesbrough is already a city in all but name, and these young people will leave the Queen in absolutely no doubt that this town warrants city status, but also how city status can help us to boost our town’s future.
“We are already a city in everything but name – it’s hard to think of anywhere with a stronger case.”
The town is just one of many across the UK campaigning to be awarded city status. A successful bid would raise the profile of the area and attract more investment and tourism.
An official bid for Middlesbrough has been sent by the council, local businesses and the Middlesbrough Partnership.
Les Southerton, chairman of the Middlesbrough Partnership, said: “City status for Middlesbrough represents a golden opportunity for the town and the area as a whole.
“The city status campaign is our chance to get out there and shout about what makes our town and our area so great.
“I am sure everyone across Teeside and beyond will throw their weight behind the campaign, which could herald the start of a new era for Middlesbrough.”