Scotland’s First Minister has officially backed Dundee’s quest to be the UK City of Culture 2017 in a move bid organisers see as “essential” to their success.
Alex Salmond said the city “thoroughly deserves the opportunity to fly the flag for Scotland’s culture” because of the rich array of artistic, musical and academic research talent housed by the Tay.
Those behind the bid believe interventions from the First Minister and Scottish Government will be a major boost to Dundee’s hopes of taking the crown as it runs up against Hull, Leicester and Swansea Bay after only other Scottish entry, Aberdeen, did not make the final four.
One of the “key challenges” laid down to Dundee in feedback from decision makers was to show “clear evidence” of backing from the Scottish Government and its agencies.
And The Courier understands the First Minister hopes to meet the City of Culture judges to further talk up the merits of Dundee being bestowed the culture crown.
Mr Salmond said: “The city has a proud record in the arts and culture and the arrival of the new V&A will enhance a reputation already well-established by the Dundee Contemporary Arts, Dundee Rep and the McManus.
“The Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design has a well-deserved international reputation, as has Abertay University in the field of digital games and media.”
The First Minister also took the opportunity to praise the creativity of DC Thomson’s legendary comic creations.
He added: “The city is unrivalled in its traditional singers and musicians. And of course, Dundee is home to iconic cartoon characters Dennis the Menace and Desperate Dan, as well, of course, to Oor Wullie and the Broons.
“The city thoroughly deserves the opportunity to fly the flag for Scotland’s culture in 2017.”
Leisure and Culture Dundee director Stewart Murdoch the man spearheading Dundee’s bid said: “It’s fantastic. Having a clear commitment from the First Minister, I think, will ensure the Scottish Government and its agencies deal with it as necessary for Dundee to put forward the strongest possible case.”