‘True Mackem’ backs bid
SHIPYARD WORKER’S DAUGHTER SUPPORTING CITY OF CULTURE 2021
The daughter of a shipyard worker with the River Wear flowing through her blood is the latest to share her passion for Sunderland’s bid to become City of Culture in 2021.
Tracey Johnson, 51, from High Barnes, is one of the 21 champions recruited to bolster Sunderland’s chances of being named UK City of Culture.
Sunderland, Coventry, Paisley, Stoke-on-Trent and Swansea are on the shortlist, and the winner will be named in December.
Tracey said she decided to become an ambassador for 2021 due to her passion and love for Sunderland, the city which she has always called home. As a “true mackem” Sunderland AFC supporter, she said the city has always held a prominent place in her heart.
“I am really quite passionate about Sunderland. I am proud of the fact that we used to be the biggest shipbuilding town in the world. I am really quite proud of Sunderland’s heritage,” she said.
Tracey said she looking forward to the progression of the Old Fire Station, which will become a cultural venue for city residents to enjoy.
She believes such opportunities and developments are set to continue should Sunderland’s bid be successful.
“I am really excited about the Fire Station, so just more places like that – venues where all the family can go. Things that all the community can get involved in,” she said.