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Blackburn is on the shortlist of towns which could be given city status in celebration of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in 2022, while Lancaster may get a mayor.
There are 39 towns in the competition, including Crewe and Warrington. For the first time, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies were invited to apply, and George Town in the Cayman Islands, Stanley in the Falkland Islands and Gibraltar are also under consideration.
Nadine Dorries, culture secretary, said: "Her Majesty The Queen's Platinum Jubilee is an exciting chance for local areas to become cities and level up opportunities for all. As well as fostering local pride and potential, this competition is a great way to mark Her Majesty's 70 year reign."
The Cabinet Office has also announced that Lancaster is one of 12 cities which is vying for Lord Provost or Lord Mayor status.
An expert panel will now work closely with government ministers to make their recommendations, before being approved by Her Majesty The Queen.
The final decision will be taken in spring 2022 and announced shortly afterwards as part of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
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