Shropshire providing the UK's first town of culture is surely a formality - here's why

For those lucky enough already be in Shropshire, we know what makes our towns so valuable, the communities, the businesses, the architecture, the landscape, the history, they are all part of what makes them worth celebrating.

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Given Shropshire's historic contribution to the world the idea of a 'UK Town of Culture' almost short-changes their importance in shaping modern civilisation.

Be it Darwin's foundational thinking on the very origin of the human race, Much Wenlock's role as the birthplace of the world's largest multi-sport event - The modern Olympic games, or Ironbridge's fundamental place as the origin of the Industrial Revolution which created the very world we all live in today, without these towns the world we all share would be very much poorer.

The government is planning to shortlist three towns - small, medium and large, before choosing an overall winner.

There's no reason for Shropshire not to take up all three slots on the shortlist, who could deny Shrewsbury's place as the large town on the list - continually named one of the top towns to visit in the country, celebrated by those who live and work there, as well as the huge numbers of tourists visiting, then returning again and again.

While many will question the value of modern social media influencers only this weekend a man who beams his thoughts to 3.3m people every day gave a glowing review of Shropshire's county town.

Kalani Ghost Hunter's TikTok review explained "one day is just not enough" for a visit, saying he was "blown away" by the "incredible" town.

Be it the historic buildings, beautiful river and parks, the intoxicating ambience continues to drag visitors in - with its burgeoning reputation as 'foodie' town, only surpassed by its recognition for providing the unrivalled opportunity to enjoy a wealth of independent traders, away from the cookie-cutter national chains that leave many places feeling... just the same.

Who in their right mind could argue that Ironbridge is not deserving of being shortlisted as the small town.

A true time-warp venue encapsulated by beautiful architecture swirling around the centre-piece Iron Bridge itself.

The independent shops, restaurants and cafes provide a true experience to celebrate.

The Ironbridge Gorge itself has World Heritage Status from Unesco. That places it alongside the Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu, the canals of Venice - if it's culture you want, then get yourself to TF8.

What about Telford itself - the finest example of a modern new-town you could ask for. It provides a celebration of all that a modern town should be, marrying the historic culture from the sum of its parts, with its modern place as a blend of industry, green spaces, attractions and a way to enjoy all that life has to offer - roundabouts included.

Bridgnorth's another - a celebration of history that can't be designed or dropped in, the town has grown and shaped itself into a picture-book example of the UK we all look back to as it embraces the modern world while reflecting the past through its classic cliff railway or celebration of steam with the Severn Valley Railway.

Why stop there - Newport, a truly beautiful historic market town with its distinctive post-card-worthy wide high street, which continues to thrive as other parts of the country struggle.

Oswestry, the birthplace of the celebrated war-poet Wilfred Owen is home to a sense of community and spirit that's the envy of many others, Ludlow with its historic castle and beautiful streets, tiny Much Wenlock's contribution to the world's sporting stage and place as an idyllic picture of what life in a rural town should be - none would be out of place to be celebrated as the best the UK has to offer.

It's only the word limit that stops me going further, Shropshire's residents know what makes their towns so special, be it Shifnal, Wem, Whitchurch, Market Drayton, Bishop's Castle, Ellesmere, Church Stretton, Broseley, Clun, Craven Arms, Cleobury Mortimer, they all deserve to be celebrated and here's the chance.

Let's see these towns recognise their worth and stand up and shout about what they are - let the UK, and the world know why they deserve their spot in the sun - although the weather may be the one thing Shropshire can't guarantee...

Here's just six of the town's which could take the crown of UK's first Town of Culture.

Shrewsbury

Shropshire's county town is no secret - it is repeatedly rated amongst the top towns in the country.

With its blend of listed buildings, independent shops, and increasing number of top restaurants it would be astonishing if its not in the running to take the crown.

Bridgnorth

Like much of Shropshire Bridgnorth's surroundings make it worth the visit alone.

Beautiful architecture, winding streets, and historic attractions such as the cliff railway and the Severn Valley Railway are cause for celebration.

Ironbridge

While small in size Ironbridge's historic status sees it punching at heavyweight level.

The town is the birthplace of the revolution that shaped the modern world - and while modern-day Ironbridge celebrates the businesses and community which keep it thriving, its place belongs with some of not just the UK's most valued and protected sites, but the world's.

Bishop's Castle

Nestled on the Shropshire and Mid Wales border Bishop's Castle is another that punches way above its diminutive stature.

The cosy streets and popular pubs are enough keep anyone coming back but the sense of community is unrivalled - as seen with the astonishing, and successful, battle to keep its hospital open.

Ludlow

Again Shropshire's place as a picture-book example of an idyllic English town is on full display on the streets of Ludlow.

Be it the huge number of traditional pubs, the restaurants or its historic castle, Ludlow is always a favourite for anyone's day out.

Telford 

Markedly different to the rest on this list its place is nonetheless deserved.

Telford's place as a 'new town' sets it apart from the rest of Shropshire and most of the UK, but what it offers is blend of the historic communities banded together to create the town - and a mix of the best modern Britain has to offer - a blend of industry, jobs, green spaces, shopping, family activities, and more that make it a place which will only get more popular.