The small Cornish town of Marazion has bid to be officially recognised as a city for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, which would make it the tiniest one in the country.

With a population of around 1,400, Marazion faces tough competition from the likes of Reading, Bournemouth and Middlesborough, which are all vying to become the UK’s next city.

The competition has been arranged by the government to celebrate Her Majesty‘s 70 years on the throne.

‘Size isn’t important’

Local councillor Richard Stokoe said that the town is home to big supporters of the Queen and planned celebrations alongside the city bid.

If the bid is successful next year, the town would be the smallest city and – at just 15 miles from Land’s End – it would also become the most southern.

“Size isn’t important,” said Cllr Stokoe. “Marazion deserves to be celebrated and given city status.”

Atlantic bluefin tuna: One of world’s most expensive fish may have returned to UK waters in part due to warming seas, scientists say

British sailor Jeffery Martin died after falling from ski-lift in Meribel, inquest hears

Frankie MacRitchie: Mother of boy mauled to death by dog apologises for ‘senseless actions’

Despite its size, the historic town – about 26 miles west of Cornwall’s only city, Truro – is packed full of heritage and overlooks the picturesque St Michael’s Mount.

Cllr Stokoe admitted that the bid has received mixed reception from the close-knit residents and split the council, but supporters are focused on the economic boost that would come with becoming a city.

Why bid to become a city?

Research produced by the University of Reading showed that a city bid alone can boost an economy and stimulate inward investment.

“It costs nothing,” Cllr Stokoe said. “Achieving city status would further raise the profile of Marazion, stimulate local businesses and prosper the community.

“It’s a magical, magical, magical place. This could put us on the map.”

Paul Elliott, the chair of Marazion’s Chamber of Commerce, added: “More than anything, the people of Marazion are excited to share their beautiful town with the world and attract more visitors.”

Related posts:

Sarah Everard suspect treated in hospital for head injury sustained in custody Former British Cycling and Team Sky doctor found guilty of ordering banned substance University allows students to apply for assignment extensions if they’ve suffered racial trauma Father and son died after being gored by water buffalo on family farm, inquest told Hamilton wins British Grand Prix after collision with Verstappen who was taken to hospital Public urged to get retested for COVID after false negatives at government-run site What are the different types of COVID-19 test and how do they work? Moeen Ali becomes first English cricketer to win Indian Premier League ‘It was never stamped out’: Cricketer Azeem Rafiq gives evidence to MPs at racism hearing Liverpool terror attack suspect reportedly had asylum claim rejected and suffered mental health issues Rees-Mogg admits ‘mistake’ advising PM to back Owen Paterson amid ongoing sleaze row Police officer charged with child sexual abuse offences including rape