BRADFORD faces competition from another West Yorkshire city in its bid to clinch the 2025 UK City of Culture title. 

Wakefield Council launched its bid on Wednesday, saying it already has a "strong track record of delivering hugely successful cultural events". 

West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin said: “I am really excited at the prospect of two West Yorkshire cities competing to become UK City of Culture 2025

"To have two of our cities preparing bids is testament to the enormous talent and creativity our region has to offer. 

"I have confidence that both cities will successfully articulate their ambitions and visions during the bid process. 

"Whoever the winner is, I will continue working with local leaders in Bradford, Wakefield and beyond to deliver on my Mayoral pledges.”

Ms Brabin visited Bradford City of Culture's headquarters in City Park earlier this month. 

The former actress said culture was a vital part of recovering from the Covid pandemic, adding: "We need to attract people here to bring money to the region. A great cultural offer will bring business to our community.

"I come from the creative industries, so I can understand how culture can change people's lives."

She said Bradford was the "engine room for everything I want to achieve as Mayor".