Culture bid is biting hard

Retired dentist Michael Oliver is the latest to get his teeth into Sunderland’s UK City of Culture bid.

And he couldn’t have timed his move better.

He’s singing the praises of the city’s cultural offerings on the very weekend one of our prodigal sons makes a heartwarming homecoming.

Dave Stewart is a Sunderland success story, having sold millions of records worldwide.

As he revealed in an interview with the Echo, people forget just how many hits he’s not only had himself but has written for other big name stars.

He is playing the Sunderland Empire for the first time in his long and illustrious career, which can only help bolster the city’s bid for the culture honour.

Not only does he remind people of the part he’s played in the city’s cultural legacy, but his choice of venue is another boon for the bid. What is interesting about Dave and Michael’s interviews, is just how enthusiastic, positive and passionate both are about the city.

Just as Michael talks of being a “proud Mackem lad” who has “tremendous energy” for his home city, so Dave speaks fondly of the city of his birth. The musician grew up in Ettrick Grove, in Barnes, and has revealed how he scattered his dad’s ashes in the sea in front of the Cat and Dogs Steps.

And his return will bolster the bid further as he gives young Wearside talent the chance to shine, with bands Lilliput, Social Room and Picnic appearing on his bill.

Sunderland is a front runner to win the City of Culture honour because it not only delivers in arts and culture, but because it has vociferous support from the great and the good.

Add your bite today.