Sandown Showcases Arts And Science In £3 Million Town Of Culture Bid

Sandown has showcased its mix of arts, science and community activities as it competes to become the UK’s first Town of Culture.

A family event at The Trouville hotel on Wednesday (21 October) featured drumming workshops, Indonesian dancing and fossils dating back around 100 million years.

The event was organised by the Sandown Tide Turners team as part of its bid for the title, which would bring £3 million in Government funding for a cultural programme in 2028.

Sandown was shortlisted from almost 400 applications and is competing against 14 other places, including Great Yarmouth, Port Talbot and Lerwick.

The bid team says its combination of creative arts and science could help change perceptions of the town and support regeneration.

Shademakers UK creative director Sharon George said the event had a lively atmosphere, while playwright Joe Plumb said cultural activity could help build local pride and encourage more people to visit.

The winning town is due to be announced after the application deadline on 30 November.