Powys is out of the running to be crowned the UK’s City of Culture 2025.

Last week, Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries revealed the eight places that were longlisted for the prestigious title - with Powys failing to make the cut.

Hopes were high when Powys threw its hat into the ring for the titles in August, with a host of councillors, MPs and Senedd Members coming out in support of the bid.

Following a record 20 bids, the eight longlisted locations are Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Bradford, Cornwall, County Durham, Derby, Southampton, Stirling and the sole Welsh representative - Wrexham County Borough.

The remaining locations must prove that they can put culture at the heart of their plans to recover from the impact of the pandemic.

For the first time, each longlisted bidder will receive £40,000 to develop a full application.

Winning the prestigious title has enormous benefits with previous hosts attracting millions of pounds in additional investment, creating jobs and attracting thousands of visitors to their local area.

The places will now work with a panel of experts and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to finalise their bids before the shortlist is announced early next year.

Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries said: “Winning the UK City of Culture competition has a hugely positive impact on an area, driving investment, creating jobs, and highlighting that culture is for everyone, regardless of their background.

“This year’s focus is on levelling up access to culture across the country and making sure there is a legacy that continues for generations to come. I look forward to seeing what this brilliant longlist has in store as they continue in the competition.”

Powys Councillor Myfanwy Alexander, Cabinet Member and Bid Director, said: “Of course this news is not what we would have hoped it to be but the process of submitting our bid has been incredibly valuable, highlighting the wealth of talent and depth of heritage we have here in Powys.

“Creativity is a key part of our future and we are actively seeking many ways of sharing that brilliance with the wider world.”

A final shortlist will be confirmed in early 2022 ahead of the overall winner being announced in the spring.