Bradford has been named the UK City of Culture 2025, beating off competition from 20 other cities.

The city will receive £275,000 in initial seed funding to develop its plans for a year of cultural activities in 2025. It will also be eligible for a £3m grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, said: 'We're delighted that our district has been recognised in this way. Being UK City of Culture brings with it so many opportunities for people not only in terms of creativity and culture, but also for employment, attracting inward investment, boosting the local economy and opening up opportunities for young people to enhance their skills.'

For the first time, the three runners up - County Durham, Southampton and Wrexham County Borough - will receive £125,000 to take forward elements of their bid.

'Congratulations to Bradford, which is a worthy winner of UK City of Culture 2025,' said culture secretary Nadine Dorries.

'Art and culture should be accessible to everyone and this prestigious title will help Bradford deliver unforgettable events for communities on their doorstep.

'There was stiff competition and I thank County Durham, Southampton and Wrexham County Borough for their excellent bids.'

Bradford will take on the title from Coventry UK City of Culture 2021, which helped the city attract £172m in inward investment.