Bid has re-invigorated the region

Jun 6 2003 By Nicholas Craig, The Journal

The tension was becoming unbearable. The long lead up to Wednesday June 4 is responsible for many grey hairs and bitten nails. And now, at last, we know the answer.

Our bid to become European Capital of Culture narrowly missed out to that of Liverpool.

The bid has cajoled, pushed and persuaded us all to become involved - to have an opinion and to care. Bombarded with mass publicity, personal e-mails, letters and brochures we became ambassadors who drove home the message that this region would have been a superb Capital of Culture.

As the date for the award announcement crept closer, you could feel the temperature rising and tempers fraying.

The art critic, Brian Sewell, whose profile has skyrocketed with his scathing swipes at "ignorant" Geordies, tested blood pressure levels with further well-timed remarks.

In Liverpool, a former head of Tyne and Wear Museums suggested the North-East was isolationist, insular and almost an irrelevance to most people in England.

There's an irritating grain of truth in the remarks of both men. However, our "ignorance" equates with an enthusiasm to experience arts and life to the full - much more refreshing than world-weary apathy. Our "insularity" gives us a strong, clear focus, particularly when it comes to changing outdated perceptions about the region.

What the two critics portrayed as weaknesses are also our strengths, giving us a distinctive, dynamic edge.

The impact of the bid has re-invigorated this region. It has raised the profile internationally, and had a direct effect on investment, business confidence and start-ups.

Tourists to the area are at record levels, and the feeling of local pride from residents is almost palpable.

The economic impact of winning the European Capital of Culture title for NewcastleGateshead would have been enormous.

The trick is now to continue to develop the momentum of regeneration, culture and diversity that has inspired press and public alike.

NewcastleGateshead is at the forefront of the world's most creative cities. We owe much to the energy and the marketing of the 2008 campaign for creating that "buzz". However, the atmosphere, scenery and most of all the people of this region remain unbeatable - whatever the competition.

* Nicholas Craig is a partner at Watson Burton law firm.