THE team behind Southampton's City of Culture bid is working towards the future to give the area a boost despite losing out in the competition. 

Though disappointed by the result, Southampton Culture Trust hasn't stopped and is now working towards driving economic growth and helping the community. 

Made up of stakeholders including both universities, Southampton City Council and the area's Business Improvement District (BID) Go! Southampton, the Trust is now set to deliver programmes, activities and campaigns to build on the work of its 2025 bid. 

Since Bradford was announced as the winner of City of Culture 2025 at the end of May, the team says it has been "working hard behind the scenes" to explore what can still be delivered from the bid. 

READ MORE: City of Culture 2025 - Live updates as Southampton loses to Bradford

Shelina Permalloo, Chair of Southampton Culture Trust and MasterChef winner said: “Naturally we are disappointed with the outcome of the bid. However, we are excited to continue to move things forward for the city and wider region, building on the work and outcomes to date.

"Bidding to become UK City of Culture has been the catalyst that the city and region has needed to put Southampton on the map.

"It’s now our opportunity to maintain the momentum, promoting Southampton as a place to live, work, visit and play!

"I’m personally excited for the next chapter and am proud to be part of the team who will continue to promote Southampton as the ambitious city that it is. This is just the beginning!”

The team is now working with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport to outline how the city's £125,000 grant will be used. 

Bids for the UK City of Culture competition are expected to be published.

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