Supporting statement from Mark Jones

I’m really pleased to be writing in support of Basingstoke’s bid to become the Town of Culture 2028. As someone who knows the town and its community well, having worked in Basingstoke and Deane in various capacities for 29 years, I know that it has all the ingredients needed to be a UK beacon of cultural brilliance.

During my career, I have had the privilege and pleasure to be involved with the arts and cultural sector through my work as editor of the Basingstoke Gazette (2002 to 2015), director of fundraising and communications for Ark Cancer Charity (2015 to 2022), and owner of Mr Blue Sky Consultancy (2022 to present), during which time I spent three years working as a consultant at Destination Basingstoke. In January 2026, I launched the #StrongerTogetherForum, a values-led organisation which already has nearly 40 member organisations in less than two months. Throughout all of these roles I have had a great deal of engagement with the thriving arts and cultural sector, and I can say with certainty that it is full of people and organisations to be proud of.  

Basingstoke has a strong sense of identity, but it’s also constantly evolving. That mix of heritage and forward-thinking energy is exactly one of the key elements that makes it such an exciting place. From its arts scene to its community events, creativity runs through the town and borough. What’s especially impressive is how inclusive that creativity is - it’s not just for a small group, but something that people of all ages and backgrounds can get involved in. And it’s the people who are at the heart of everything. 

One of Basingstoke’s biggest strengths is its community spirit. People genuinely care about where they live and are keen to take part, whether that’s through local festivals, performances, or grassroots initiatives. Giving the town the opportunity to shine as Town of Culture would amplify that energy and bring even more people together.

Securing this prestigious platform would also provide a fantastic chance to shine a light on local talent and give artists, performers, and organisers the national showcase they deserve. At the same time, it would attract new visitors and opportunities, helping the town and borough to grow in a positive and sustainable way.

In short, Basingstoke is ready, willing and able to take on the mantle of UK Town of Culture. It has the people, the creativity, and the ambition to make Town of Culture 2028 something truly special. It is a place to be proud of and it would do Britain proud if it is crowned UK Town of Culture.