The children chat confidently about their aspirations for the future and what they love about their hometown in the film released today.
A poem developed by the children with local writer Bob Beagrie features in Middlesbrough’s bid for the title.
Beagrie features in the video along with Taste of Africa charity founder Sade Sangowawa and Creative Factory Executive Director Anna Byrne.
Their voices tell the story of how Middlesbrough became the “biggest boomtown in the Victorian age” and go on to highlight the everyday activities and passions that make the town tick.
The video highlights Middlesbrough’s “undercover artists”, its “hard-nosed” character and of course includes a triumphant “Up the Boro!”.
Cllr Philippa Storey, Deputy Mayor and Executive member for Culture at Middlesbrough Council, said: “It’s a fantastic film and I was quite moved when I watched it. The pupils from Newport really do steal the show.
“The video sums up Middlesbrough’s character so well and really shows off our culture of community that’s at the heart of our bid to become UK City of Culture.”
The Council worked with the Middlesbrough Cultural Partnership, Teesside University and Tees Valley Combined Authority on the bid.
The title comes with a £10m prize from government with previous winners enjoying huge increases in investment and visitors. Middlesbrough was longlisted back in March with the shortlist due to be announced this month.
You can see the video on YouTube here.
