Warwick's unsuccessful bid to become a city has raised the town's profile and reminded people both locally and nationally of its rich history and unique qualities, the town council has said.

The Cabinet Office revealed on Friday that Warwick would not be one of eight new cities created as part of the Platinum Jubilee civic honours competition.

The county town was one of 40 locations to apply for city status, with Alcester and Dudley also missing out in the West Midlands.

Warwick Town Council's application showcased the town's civic pride, historic and cultural identity, and economic and independent retail sector - not to mention its reputation as a great place to live.

"Naturally, we are disappointed after the effort and passion that went into the application for city status, but we have raised the profile of the town and reminded people exactly how special Warwick is - for the those who live and work here, and for people who are yet to visit and fall in love with our unique town," said said council leader Cllr Noel Butler.

The town council was backed by local organisations including Warwick Castle, the Lord Leycester Hospital, Warwick Chamber of Trade and Warwick Schools Foundation, with other bodies helping shape its submission to ensure Warwick stood the best chance possible of achieving city status.

And the town's MP, Matt Western, admitted last week that he was "immensely disappointed" by the announcement.

The Cabinet Office said all the new cities can all expect the opening of new opportunities for people who live there. 

advertisement

But Cllr Butler said Warwick missing out on city status did not take away from the charm of the town.

"Warwick will continue to be a great place to live as well as offering visitors a first-class experience," he added.

"We have an exciting few months coming up, with our own Platinum Jubilee celebrations on June 2, the arrival of the Commonwealth Games' cycle race and a visit from the Queen's Baton Relay.

"We look forward to welcoming people from across the UK and beyond to our wonderful town to experience exactly what made us so passionate about it being recognised in this competition."