BROMSGROVE has been named as a shortlisted town for a UK competition to win up to £20,000 to invest in a community project or initiative.

A total of 30 towns across the country have been shortlisted as part of ‘Let’s Celebrate Towns’ – a competition run by Visa in partnership with the British Retail Consortium.

As part of the application proves, towns across the UK have highlighted a range of initiatives including business and council partnerships to drive investment and mentoring to support local businesses.

A panel of judges from business, industry and regional bodies will decide on eight overall winners which is due to be announced at an awards ceremony in March 2023.

One of those on the judging panel is Tony Danker, director general of the Confederation of British Industry.

He said: “I am delighted to be taking part in the Let’s Celebrate Towns initiative and look forward to showcasing where towns are supporting businesses – of all sizes – to succeed.”

Mandy Lamb, managing director UK and Ireland, Visa, said: “At Visa, we believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere.

“That includes the local economies created in our towns; home to a rich diversity of independent businesses operating alongside major brands, restaurants, cafes and retailers.

“We believe it’s time to put towns centre stage.”