Three big Yorkshire businesses have given their backing to Leeds’ bid to become European Capital of Culture in 2023.
Yorkshire Bank, Yorkshire Building Society and Yorkshire Water pledged their support during an event held at Northern Ballet.
Companies across the region have committed a combined £250,000 towards sponsoring the bid, with the money intended to support existing cultural events as well as potentially commissioning a new one.
Solicitor Karen Sewell, business spokeswoman for the Independent Steering Group, said: “It’s hugely exciting to see three more prominent businesses showing their belief in our city’s European Capital of Culture bid, alongside our bid backers
“Their support will make a huge difference in bringing the bid to life and helping to create a programme of events that will capture the imagination of the next generation of cultural and creative talent in Leeds.
“We also hope their example will now inspire more businesses to come forward and pledge their support as we look to gather momentum and bring our communities, businesses and cultural sector together behind the bid.”
Other confirmed sponsors include Arup, Bruntwood, Keepmoat, DLA Piper, Rushbond and RSM UK. A final decision on the European Capital of Culture 2023 host city will be made next year.
