Politics are put aside in support of 2021 bid
Politicians across the political divide have shown support for Paisley as the town bids to become UK City of Culture 2021.
A lively Holyrood debate was held on Wednesday as the bid team prepares to hit the button on the final submission today.
MSPs put their political differences aside and voted unanimously to back the town's bid to secure the title at the debate in parliament .
The motion was in the name of Fiona Hyslop, cabinet secretary for culture, tourism and external affairs, and it also backed Dundee's bid to be European City of Culture 2023.
Ms Hyslop said Paisley's bid journey has been “inspiring” and added: “The Paisley bid has been developed through extensive community engagement and the people of Paisley have helped put together a strong bid for the town and Scotland.
“More than 30,000 Buddies have been engaged in the process of developing the bid which has broad-based community support.
“This is part of a broader heritage and culture-led regeneration strategy to transform Paisley into a vibrant cultural and creative destination.”
The Scottish Government has already pledged its financial backing if the Renfrewshire town takes the title.
Also speaking in the chamber, Labour MSP for West of Scotland region, Neil Bibby, backed the motion and said he believed the bid had the power to transform Paisley.
He added: “The bid is not just about celebrating Paisley, it's about making a difference.”
Paisley is the sole Scottish contender in the competition organised by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport on behalf of the UK Government.
George Adam, SNP member for Paisley, raised a laugh in the Parliament chamber when he opened an emotive speech about his home town by declaring: “I am, of course, extremely pleased to take part in this debate – a whole afternoon of positive Paisley-ness will do me nicely.”
Maurice Corry, Conservative MSP for West Scotland, added: “Paisley is a fantastic place to live and work and its warm people and rich, interesting cultural heritage deserve to be honoured in this way.”
Labour MSP Mary Fee, who also represents West Scotland region, said: “I know that Paisley has got what it takes to win the title.”
The other shortlisted bidders are Coventry, Stoke, Sunderland and Swansea with a decision expected by mid-December.
The bid is not just about celebrating Paisley, it’s about making a difference