Culture title would be precious prize

It would be hard to over-estimate the benefits the City of Culture title would bring to Perth. From the outside, it may seem Scotland’s newest city has relatively little to gain.

Enjoying an ideal setting on the banks of the Tay, it already has a vibrant arts scene, a top flight football team and a wide range of independent retailers.

Scratch beneath the surface, however, and it is clear the Fair City has been far from immune to the ravages of the economic downturn which has wrought such havoc in settlements all over the country.

There are too many empty retails units and stubborn pockets of deprivation remain.

The night-time economy falls short of what one might expect in a modern, vibrant city.

These are things that a city of culture title may well help to address.

One need look no further than Hull to see just how beneficial victory for Perth could be.

The 2017 recipient of the culture crown is in the midst of a busy year of events and festivities, none of which would have been possible without the impetus provided by the title.

The prize is a glittering one and we are more than happy to lend our support.

It is now down to everyone with Perth’s best interests at heart to do their bit.