Bootle’s cultural ambition continues to take major steps forward as some of the town’s most recognisable figures have come together to champion Sefton Council’s bid for Bootle to become the UK’s first Town of Culture.

Bootle’s growing reputation for creativity and cultural energy

Football icons Jamie Carragher and Alex Greenwood joined respected local creatives Carl Hunter of The Farm and Fran Doran of Red Rum Club for a lively and well attended press afternoon last week. The event brought together journalists, partners and community representatives, all eager to hear how Bootle’s growing reputation for creativity and cultural energy is shaping its vision for 2028.

Kingsley & Co played host

The event was held at Kingsley & Co, a beautiful children’s bookshop at the heart of the Bootle town centre, operated by Y-Kids – of which the world-renowned author and local resident Frank Cottrell-Boyce is a Patron. Partnership working between Sefton Council and Y-Kids means that this beautiful space exemplifies the Council’s regeneration ambitions with culture at its heart.

Pride in representing the community

The ambassadors took part in an open and relaxed panel conversation, sharing their personal stories, their deep connection to Bootle and the pride they feel in representing the community. They spoke passionately about why now is the right moment for Bootle to step onto the national stage and how culture can play a central role in shaping the town’s next chapter.

Podcast hosted by Leanne Campbell

Following the press event, the ambassadors continued the conversation in a podcast hosted by Leanne Campbell at The Big Onion in Bootle Strand, offering a more informal space to explore ideas and ambitions for the Town of Culture bid and programme.

Opportunity to unlock new investment, champion the incredible talent we have here in Bootle

“Our Town of Culture bid is rooted in ambition and pride,” said Cllr Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economy and Skills. “It represents a real opportunity to unlock new investment, champion the incredible talent we have here in Bootle, and deliver cultural experiences that truly reflect the spirit and identity of our town.”

Wider cultural activity already taking place across the town

The event also highlighted the wider cultural activity already taking place across the town. The success of Salt and Tar, the transformation of Bootle Strand and the community-led workshops shaping the bid all signal a confident, forward-looking Bootle. These initiatives demonstrate how culture is already driving regeneration, strengthening local pride and creating opportunities for people of all ages.

Town of Culture title would support a major cultural programme in 2028

If successful, the Town of Culture title would support a major cultural programme in 2028 designed with and for Bootle’s communities. It would help bring new experiences to the town, create meaningful opportunities for young people and grassroots creatives, and leave a legacy of skills, investment and shared pride long after the programme ends.

Bootle Bid Backers

Bootle’s Bid Backers will continue to support the campaign as the next phase of the bid takes shape, with more ambassadors set to be announced soon. Their commitment reinforces a clear message: Bootle is a town with a powerful story to tell, a passionate community able to tell it, and a bright, cultural future ahead.