Midlothian Towns Vie for UK Culture Crown

0:00It's March 31st. Welcome to Edinburgh News Today, powered by AI. I'm Corey with the story. Two towns in Midlothian Scotland are going head-to-head for a shot at UK Town of Culture, 2028. Dao Keees and Penakwick, both through their hats in the ring, with counselors just greenlighting Dao Keees bid while backing Penakwick too. The winner gets 3 million pounds to host events for six months, and two finalists score 250,000 pounds each. Penakwick kicked things off earlier this month, with a grassroots push to spotlight its heritage. Meanwhile, a council report picked Dao Keees as the area's top pick, calling it one of the largest and most historic spots. Bids had to be in by the end of Tuesday, so both towns hustled to make the cut. Locals are buzzing with pride. Council leader Kelly Perry called it a win for Midlothian's diverse culture, urging everyone to cheer both efforts. Penakwick's rep praised the volunteer grind there, while Dao Keees saw it as a boost for regeneration and economic growth.

1:01Counselors voted to support Dao Keees officially, but pledged equal help for Penakwick, keeping things fair in this friendly rivalry. Other spots like Kettering and Northamptonshire and Rochdale and Greater Manchester also submitted bids. With Midlothian shining bright on the national stage, it'll be epic to see which town claims that culture crown and sparks some real change.