Discover Huntingdon Joins New VisitEngland-Backed Tourism Partnership

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Discover Huntingdon Joins New VisitEngland-Backed Tourism Partnership

Huntingdon has secured its place in a newly accredited national tourism partnership, following confirmation that Cambridgeshire and Peterborough has been awarded Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) status by VisitEngland.

Discover Huntingdon, the destination brand for Huntingdon BID, is named as a founding partner of the new LVEP Collaboration Agreement, signed by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority. The partnership, convened by Mayor Paul Bristow, brings together destination organisations, local authorities, businesses and cultural partners from across the region with a shared ambition to grow the visitor economy.

The accreditation recognises destinations with the ambition and capability to support visitor economy growth through collaboration, strategic planning and stronger engagement with government. It also provides access to VisitEngland’s national LVEP network and growth programme, helping destinations attract more visitors, investment and opportunities.

Paul Sweeney, CEO of BID Huntingdon First who leads Discover Huntingdon and sits on the Heritage and Tourism Working Group helping to drive the partnership forward, said:

“This is a significant milestone for Huntingdon and a major opportunity for the town. Being recognised as a founding partner in the new LVEP means Huntingdon has a seat at the table as regional visitor economy priorities are developed and delivered.”

“Through Discover Huntingdon, we have worked hard to showcase the town as a destination in its own right, highlighting everything from our historic town centre and heritage assets to our riverside location, green spaces, independent businesses and growing programme of events. This recognition demonstrates the value of that work and places Huntingdon in a strong position to benefit from future investment, collaboration and promotional opportunities.”

The visitor economy across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough already contributes an estimated £2 billion annually and supports around 40,000 jobs. The new LVEP will provide a stronger collective voice for destinations across the region while creating opportunities to attract more visitors and encourage longer stays.

For Huntingdon, the partnership supports ongoing efforts to strengthen the town centre as a destination for shopping, dining, leisure and cultural experiences. The town’s rich history, riverside environment, parks and open spaces, together with its diverse range of shops, hospitality businesses and professional services, form a key part of the visitor offer that Discover Huntingdon will continue to promote.

The Heritage and Tourism Working Group is now progressing the next phase of development required by VisitEngland, including a Destination Management Plan, the establishment of an LVEP Board and a formal partnership agreement across all member organisations.

As a founding partner, Discover Huntingdon will help shape the future direction of the visitor economy across the region while ensuring Huntingdon’s interests remain firmly represented. The accreditation also strengthens the case for continued investment in destination marketing and positions Huntingdon as an important part of a growing network of visitor destinations across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Paul Bristow, said:

“This is what happens when a region works together with purpose. This isn’t a paper exercise, we are building a new partnership that reflects how the visitor economy actually works.”

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes added:

“The Local Visitor Economy Partnership programme is transforming the visitor economy landscape in England, supporting its growth in a more inclusive, accessible and regenerative way, and I am delighted to welcome the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough LVEP.”

Universal Studios theme park Bedford FAQs

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Europe’s first Universal-branded entertainment resort is coming to Bedfordshire.

Universal Destinations & Experiences, part of Comcast NBCUniversal, is building its first-ever Universal-branded theme park and resort in the United Kingdom, located in Bedford, Bedfordshire. The entertainment resort complex will feature a world-class theme park with several themed lands, visitor accommodation, and a range of retail, dining and entertainment uses.

It will be the first Universal-branded theme park in both the UK and Europe.

Has planning permission been granted?

Yes. In December 2025, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) approved Universal’s request for planning permission to be granted by way of making a Special Development Order (SDO). The proposal was sponsored by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

While there are still further steps to complete, including a statutory parliamentary review period, this represents a major milestone for the project.

When will construction start and when will it open?

On-site activity began gradually increasing following the December 2025 planning decision. Road improvement works associated with the project are already under way in the Bedford area in 2026. Universal indicated that construction was projected to begin in 2026, subject to planning approval being finalised.

A specific opening date has not yet been announced. Check universalukproject.co.uk for the latest updates.

What rides and experiences can we expect?

Universal has not yet released details of specific attractions, rides or themed lands. The resort will feature Universal’s signature style of immersive storytelling, thrilling rides and innovative entertainment across several themed lands.

Universal’s existing parks around the world at Orlando, Hollywood, Japan and Singapore‚ give a flavour of what a UK resort might offer, but specific details for the Bedford site will be shared in due course.

What accommodation will be available at the resort?

Initial resort plans include a 500-room hotel on site, alongside the theme park, a retail complex, dining and wider entertainment facilities. Further details on hotel brands, room types and booking information have not yet been released.

How will I get there? What transport improvements are planned?

The project will help deliver several significant local transport upgrades, including the expansion of Wixams railway station, new direct slip roads from the A421, and upgrades to Manor Road and the Active Travel Network. These improvements have support from National Highways and Network Rail.

Universal has also committed to low-carbon transport options, including one of the UK’s largest EV charging facilities and a fleet of electric or low-carbon vehicles to transfer guests from local railway stations to the resort.

How many jobs will the resort create?

The project is expected to create 20,000 jobs during the construction phase, with more than 5,000 workers on site at peak construction. Once operational, the resort will provide around 8,000 permanent jobs, making it one of the largest employers in the region.

Approximately 80% of employees are expected to come from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes. Opportunities in apprenticeships, training and education are also planned for the wider community.

What is the economic benefit for the region?

Universal estimates the resort will generate nearly £50 billion of direct and indirect economic benefit for the UK. It will be a major contributor to the tourism and creative industries, attracting millions of new visitors to the region each year and boosting local businesses and supply chains.

Will the resort be environmentally sustainable?

Sustainability is central to the project’s design. ESP Utilities Group has been appointed to deliver key green infrastructure, including a new water treatment facility designed to re-use and recycle water on site, an all-electric central energy plant to provide low-carbon heating and cooling, and enhanced surface water drainage to reduce local flood risk.

The project is designed to align with the UK’s net-zero 2050 trajectory, and the low-carbon energy plant has the potential to serve surrounding communities beyond the resort itself.

How can I register my interest in working at the resort?

You can register your interest in future job opportunities via the Universal UK Project website. Categories include park and resort operations, entertainment, food and beverage, construction, creative, finance, technology, HR, marketing and more. You can also check www.nbcunicareers.com/find-a-job for live roles as they are advertised.

Where can local businesses find out about supplier opportunities?

Local businesses interested in working with Universal on the project can register their details via the Universal UK Project website. Universal has encouraged local companies to get in touch and has expressed a commitment to working with regional suppliers and businesses throughout the construction and operational phases.

Are there any current road closures related to the project?

Yes. Early infrastructure works are already underway. Current planned closures include Broadmead Road (closed between Woburn Road junction and Hansons Reach Roundabout from 11 May to 12 June 2026), with temporary traffic management in place from 27 April. Woburn Road will also be closed from 8pm on Friday 5 June to 5am on Monday 8 June 2026, with traffic diverted via the A421.

Residents within closure areas will have a dedicated attendant escort to and from their properties. For the latest traffic updates, sign up for construction updates at universalukproject.co.uk.

How do I get in touch or find out more

Content accurate as of April 2026. All figures and timelines are subject to change.

Huntingdon helping to shape the future of regional tourism

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Huntingdon BID represents the town on a regional working group established by the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority, helping ensure Huntingdon has a voice in shaping the future of tourism and culture across the region.

LVEP working group

Huntingdon BID sits on the LVEP Working Group, which is applying for local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) status through Arts Council England. Achieving LVEP status would formally establish Cambridgeshire and Peterborough as a destination of choice on both the national and international stage — unlocking support, investment, and profile that benefits towns like Huntingdon across the whole region.

LVEPs are a nationally recognised framework championed by VisitEngland, designed to bring together local authorities, destination management organisations, and tourism businesses to develop joined-up strategies that sustainably grow the visitor economy.

What this means for Huntingdon

“Huntingdon has a compelling story to tell. Our history, our riverside, our independent businesses — these are exactly the kinds of assets that make a destination worth visiting. Being part of these working groups means we can make sure Huntingdon is properly represented as the region builds its cultural and tourism vision.”

This work is at the heart of what Huntingdon BID is all about—championing the town, connecting it to wider opportunities, and making sure it stands alongside the region’s larger destinations.

We’ll keep you updated as both initiatives develop. If you’re a local business or organisation and would like to find out more, please get in touch.

Huntingdon Takes Bold Step Toward Becoming UK Town of Culture 2028

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Huntingdon Takes Bold Step Toward                                             

Becoming UK Town of Culture 2028

 

 

Huntingdon is officially gearing up for an exciting cultural journey after Huntingdon Town Council voted last week (Thursday 19 February) to back a bold bid for the town to become the UK Town of Culture 2028. This endorsement marks the beginning of a vibrant, united collaboration between Huntingdon Town Council, BID Huntingdon First, and the Cromwell Museum. Together, the three partners will now work jointly to prepare and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) which is the first major step in the national application process.

Work will now begin behind the scenes to engage local arts and cultural organisations, creative practitioners, performance groups and community arts initiatives. This early collaboration will ensure that Huntingdon’s Expression of Interest is driven by the town’s artistic strengths, from music, theatre, visual arts and dance to grassroots creativity, and reflects the ambition to expand access to culture for everyone.

The UK Town of Culture programme aims to celebrate creativity, local identity, and heritage, spotlighting towns that bring people together and proudly tell their unique stories. Winning towns will deliver ambitious programmes showcasing arts, culture, and community pride, supported by significant investment and national attention. Expressions of Interest are open until 31 March 2026, with shortlisted towns receiving development funding to prepare full bids, and the ultimate winner securing £3 million to deliver a vibrant cultural programme in 2028.

 

Cllr Amanda Norton, Chair of the Estates Amenities and Communities Committee for Huntingdon Town Council said:

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be stepping forward with this bid. This is a huge opportunity to celebrate everything that makes Huntingdon special, our heritage, our creativity, and our amazing community. The energy behind this partnership is incredible, and we can’t wait to show the rest of the country what Huntingdon can do.”

 

Paul Sweeney, CEO for BID Huntingdon First said:

“We see enormous potential for the Town of Culture programme to bring fresh energy and opportunity into Huntingdon. A chance to celebrate the rich cultural activities that already exist on our doorsteps. Showcasing this not just across the UK but by opening doors locally to people who have perhaps not felt included, seen or believed they had access to the arts. Inspiring creativity in our community is a way to strengthen our town, learning from the past, working in the present and shaping it for the future.”

 

Stuart Orme, Curator for the Cromwell Museum said:

“The Cromwell Museum is rooted in Huntingdon’s cultural identity, and we’re excited to help shape a bid that looks to the town’s future as well as its past. With plans for our expansion underway, this is a perfect moment to work in partnership to celebrate our town’s heritage while embracing new possibilities for the whole community.”

 

As the Town of Culture Bid takes shape, the partnership’s focus will be on capturing the full breadth of Huntingdon’s cultural spirit, past, present, and future. This collaborative effort aims to create a bid that not only celebrates the town’s identity but also inspires fresh opportunities, creativity, and pride throughout the community.

BID Huntingdon takes one step closer to an independent cinema to boost local access to the arts and the night-time economy.

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Huntingdon takes one step closer to an independent cinema to boost local access to the arts and the night-time economy.


The Huntingdon Business Improvement District (BID) has appointed Mustard Studio in association with AOC Architecture Ltd to conduct a feasibility study to repurpose 12 All Saints Passage into a boutique community cinema.  This multi-purpose study, funded by UKSPF (via the CPCA), will assess the cultural and broader economic benefits of such a venue, assess market demand, and test business viability.

12 All Saints Passage has been closed since 2009, and BID, alongside Huntingdonshire District Council, have identified an independent cinema as a potential use for the building. 

 

Mustard Studio, which led the successful tender bid, was founded in 2020 and specialises in services for the cinema and film sectors, including feasibility studies for local councils, trustees, and private investors, with a focus on research, market demand, audience development, brand positioning( including operational concept and strategy), communications strategy, business modelling and financial analysis. 

 

AOC are an RIBA Chartered Practice of architects and designers who create buildings, places and experiences. Established in 2005, they have gained international recognition for their inventive inquiry, participatory practice and characterful designs. AOC has a distinct reputation for high-quality public buildings, cultural institutions, and community projects in politically and historically sensitive contexts. 

 

BID Huntingdon Town Manager, Paul Sweeney, commented, “I’m incredibly excited to be working on this feasibility study with Mustard Studio, which explores a truly trail-blazing and innovative concept for BIDs. A boutique community cinema on the high street has real potential to strengthen leisure provision, increase footfall, and support the long-term vitality and development of the town centre. It’s an exciting opportunity to re-imagine how our high street can serve residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”

 

Mandy Kean, CEO of Mustard Studio, said, “We believe that local and independent cinemas are the glue that brings people together, develops community engagement and that anyone of any age can enjoy.  It is a genuine thrill to be at the start of this journey with Paul and the wider team, and we look forward to meeting with people and getting to know the town more”.

 

Tom Coward of AOC added, “We enjoy bringing buildings back into active use and are excited to be working with Huntingdon BID. There is huge potential, through sustainable refurbishment, to make a positive contribution to the high street and the night-time economy with the proposed boutique cinema with additional community uses ”. 

 

Mustard Studio invites the local community to participate in an online survey and share comments. To participate, please use this link https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Huntingdon84

 

The feasibility study will commence in January 2026, with the final report due in June 2026. 

Press Enquiries: Paul Sweeney – paul@bidhuntingdon.co.uk or Kate Gerova – kate@mustardstudio.co.uk

 

Editor’s Notes:

About BID

A Business Improvement District (BID) is a defined area where local businesses come together to invest in projects and services that improve the local trading environment. These initiatives are additional to those provided by local authorities and are funded by a small levy paid by eligible businesses within the BID boundary.

BIDs are designed to give businesses a collective voice and the ability to shape the future of their high street or commercial area. From improving the look and feel of the town centre to marketing campaigns, events and security, BIDs focus on initiatives that attract more shoppers, visitors, and ultimately investors creating a sense of place. 

BID Huntingdon acts as a true Town Team, where businesses and organisations collaborate to enhance the town centre experience and create a more vibrant, welcoming place to work, shop, and visit. Over time, this coordinated effort helps drive footfall, boost the local economy, and build a stronger sense of community pride.

About Mustard Studio

Mustard Studio was founded in 2020 and specialises in services for the cinema and film sectors. The founders’ background is in cinema operations and brand marketing. Working with expert associates, the company has conducted multiple cinema feasibility studies in association with local councils, trustees, or private investors. The company has developed a cohesive 360-degree approach, from the very early stages of research and market demand through financial viability and operational excellence to brand positioning and communications strategy. This approach is built on their understanding of how independent cinemas and circuits operate, combining financial and operational targets with audience development. It is firmly rooted in a venue’s long-term success. 

About AOC

AOC are an RIBA Chartered Practice of architects and designers who create buildings, places and experiences. Established in 2005, they have gained international recognition for their inventive inquiry, participatory practice and characterful designs. AOC have a distinct reputation for high-quality public buildings, cultural institutions and community projects located in politically and historically sensitive contexts. 

 

They work with their clients, collaborating with users and other experts, to develop new briefs for contemporary challenges. They engage with communities and their cultures to make designs that are useful, valuable and joyful. AOC use resources inventively to optimise the use of energy and minimise the emission of carbon, and deliver proposals that are particular to the forms, materials and myths of their place. AOC are Agents Of Change, and as such they work extensively supporting public institutions at a local and national level, often working in sensitive locations to transform building performance, public access, inclusion and the visitor experience. They are a diverse team of designers based in East London.

About Huntingdonshire District Council (HDC)

The District Council is a local government authority responsible for providing a range of services across the Huntingdonshire area.  Services provided include refuse, local planning and leisure facilities, housing support and wider community support, including market town regeneration, economic development and tourism. 

12 All Saints Passage is a property within HDC’s current Estates portfolio.  The Council is committed to bringing this property back into use, acknowledging the benefits that development can bring to the town.  This work supports and aligns with the Council’s Economic Growth Strategy work and Regeneration programme. 

Business News – All the NEW stores NOW OPEN in Huntingdon!

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NEW BUSINESSES

Exciting things have been happening in St Benedict’s Court! So far there has been a new Child-focussed Charity shop – the Toy Chest, run by Lianne Simpson MBE (Well Done Lianne!), a new night economy location, the ESE lounge a Jamaican style restaurant, a Skateboard shop – Scenic Skate and the new games arcade GAME ON.

Meanwhile at one end of the High Street we have a new hair salon Dream Hair at 63a and the Cosmetic Collective at the other end at no.24 with The Great Wall moving to larger premises nearby. Woof St, a dog grooming parlour, has opening down All Saints Passage and Sunloungers, a new travel agent is open in Chequers Court. Good Luck to one and all!

 

Universal Studios plans a new theme park near us, bringing major opportunities for the region

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Universal Studios has announced plans to build its first European theme park just over 25 miles from Huntingdon, on the former brickworks site at Kempston Hardwick in Bedfordshire. The development, which is now moving through the planning and engagement stages, represents one of the largest tourism investments the region has seen in decades. We are following progress closely and fully support the project.

A multi-billion-pound partnership with the government bringing the resort to the Bedfordshire area is an exciting and fantastic opportunity for our local economy. Early proposals include a world-class theme park featuring immersive themed lands, a 500-room hotel, and a wide range of dining and entertainment spaces. If the plans receive approval, construction could begin in 2026, with the resort expected to open in 2031.

The project is forecast to create around 28,000 jobs, including 20,000 during construction and approximately 8,000 permanent roles once the park opens. Universal has stated that it expects the vast majority of its workforce to come from surrounding communities, which means significant opportunities for local residents, apprentices, and suppliers. The scheme is also projected to deliver a substantial economic boost nationally and regionally.

The resort is expected to attract millions of visitors in its first year. As one of the closest towns to the proposed site, we are well-positioned to benefit from increased visitor footfall. This may include overnight stays, additional spending in local businesses, and greater visibility for our own attractions and events. Improved transport links form part of Universal’s proposals, including enhancements to rail capacity and local infrastructure, which would support both the resort and nearby communities.

We will be posting regular updates about the development, including timelines and engagement in the planning process. Universal is also inviting early expressions of interest from people who may wish to work at the resort or from businesses interested in potential supply-chain partnerships.

This is a major opportunity for Huntingdon and the region, and we look forward to the positive impact it could bring to our community.

Discover Huntingdon – Visitor Centre now open

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Huntingdon First are extremely proud to announce funding secured for the opening of Huntingdon’s first Visitors Centre – Discover Huntingdon.

Huntingdon First (BID) have worked closely with Huntingdonshire District Council to secure funding from the CPCA (Cambridge and Peterborough Combined Authority) to deliver and open Huntingdon’s first Visitors Centre as part of the Accelerated Towns Programme this summer.

The effects of Covid on our High Streets has been immeasurable, with businesses struggling to regain traction in the world, where marketing and promotions are key to sustaining businesses. Our Discover Huntingdon Visitors Centre aims to become the central focus of the High Street, giving the town a beating heart from which we can house our promotions. A place where locals and visitors alike can source visitor information on shops, services, local attractions, walks and events alongside historic and heritage literature, town maps, guides and promotional material. A central hub that celebrates and promotes all things Huntingdon. We hope that the new Visitors Centre will act not only as a central guide for shops and services but will also act to leverage our towns legacy into visitor engagement through promoting the town as a historic destination.

Work on the centre is due to start in the coming weeks which will be located within the entrance to 39 High Street (The Commemoration Hall) the venue being a charity run heritage building on the high street, which offers the Visitors Centre the best, most cost-effective opportunity to serve the town.

Offering a host of both digital and printed guides to Huntingdon and the surrounding areas to both our local community and visitors to the town. Alongside town guides, the centre will also stock a number of new Huntingdon based products such as bags, tea towels, placemats, aprons, pens, notebooks and more. Utilising designs already on display around the town from Huntingdon First, promoting Huntingdon and some of its incredible historic buildings and notable landmarks.

Paul Sweeney, Huntingdon First Town Manager said:

“We’re thrilled to have been awarded this funding through the CPCA and the Accelerated Towns Programme and are hugely grateful to Huntingdonshire District Council for their support. The idea of a Visitor Centre was an integral part of our renewal manifesto for the town centre in 2022 and as such we are really pleased to see the project coming to life. Footfall in the town is increasing and has started to match or surpass that of pre-pandemic times which is very encouraging”.

Cllr Sam Wakeford, Executive Member for Jobs, Economy, and Housing at Huntingdonshire District Council, said:

“We want to see our town centres thriving, so we are pleased to be able to support Huntingdon First with the new visitor centre. It will play a vital role in celebrating and promoting all that can be found in Huntingdon as we look to encourage as many local residents and visitors into the town as possible so they can enjoy the many different shops and services that Huntingdon has to offer.”

BID Huntingdon First would like to thank the Regeneration Programmes Team in Huntingdonshire District Council in supporting and partnering towards the project and to the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) in securing the funding.

Huntingdon First secure visitor centre funding

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Huntingdon First are extremely proud to announce funding secured for the opening of Huntingdon’s first Visitors Centre – Discover Huntingdon.

Huntingdon First (BID) have worked closely with Huntingdonshire District Council to secure funding from the CPCA (Cambridge and Peterborough Combined Authority) to deliver and open Huntingdon’s first Visitors Centre as part of the Accelerated Towns Programme this summer.

The effects of Covid on our High Streets has been immeasurable, with businesses struggling to regain traction in the world, where marketing and promotions are key to sustaining businesses. Our Discover Huntingdon Visitors Centre aims to become the central focus of the High Street, giving the town a beating heart from which we can house our promotions. A place where locals and visitors alike can source visitor information on shops, services, local attractions, walks and events alongside historic and heritage literature, town maps, guides and promotional material. A central hub that celebrates and promotes all things Huntingdon. We hope that the new Visitors Centre will act not only as a central guide for shops and services but will also act to leverage our towns legacy into visitor engagement through promoting the town as a historic destination.

Work on the centre is due to start in the coming weeks which will be located within the entrance to 39 High Street (The Commemoration Hall) the venue being a charity-run heritage building on the high street, which offers the Visitors Centre the best, most cost-effective opportunity to serve the town.

Offering a host of both digital and printed guides to Huntingdon and the surrounding areas to both our local community and visitors to the town. Alongside town guides, the centre will also stock a number of new Huntingdon based products such as bags, tea towels, placemats, aprons, pens, notebooks and more. Utilising designs already on display around the town from Huntingdon First, promoting Huntingdon and some of its incredible historic buildings and notable landmarks.

Paul Sweeney, Huntingdon First Town Manager said:

“We’re thrilled to have been awarded this funding through the CPCA and the Accelerated Towns Programme and are hugely grateful to Huntingdonshire District Council for their support. The idea of a Visitor Centre was an integral part of our renewal manifesto for the town centre in 2022 and as such we are really pleased to see the project coming to life. Footfall in the town is increasing and has started to match or surpass that of pre-pandemic times which is very encouraging”.

Cllr Sam Wakeford, Executive Member for Jobs, Economy, and Housing at Huntingdonshire District Council, said:

“We want to see our town centres thriving, so we are pleased to be able to support Huntingdon First with the new visitor centre. It will play a vital role in celebrating and promoting all that can be found in Huntingdon as we look to encourage as many local residents and visitors into the town as possible so they can enjoy the many different shops and services that Huntingdon has to offer.”

BID Huntingdon First would like to thank the Regeneration Programmes Team in Huntingdonshire District Council in supporting and partnering towards the project and to the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) in securing the funding.

Free community screening of the Eurovision final

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Huntingdon First and The Commemoration Hall Charity salute a resounding ‘Douze Points’ for the FREE Community Screening of the Eurovision Final.

Huntingdon First were extremely proud to host this weekend’s Eurovision Final Screening in partnership with The Commemoration Hall Charity.

The landmark screening, the first of its kind in Huntingdon Town Centre, took place in the Commemoration Hall; the venue being the heart of Arts and Entertainment in Huntingdon town centre. Renowned for being a community-based facility, BID were delighted to work in partnership for the screening to take place there. Mayor Dr Nik Johnson (Mayor of Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority) was on site to open the event alongside drag host Mary Christmas and the newly appointed mayor of Huntingdon Town Councillor Phillip Pearce and his Lady Mayoress.

Throughout the evening, we saw audiences of around 200 people come through the doors to view parts of the Eurovision Extravaganza and taste some amazing Eurovision-flavoured cocktails! A dedicated set of over 100 stayed until the very end at 00:30 am to see Loreen be crowned not only as the 2023 winner for Sweden with ‘Tattoo’ but also the first female artist to win the contest twice!

Plans are already in place for 2024, which will again see the live-streamed screening held at The Commemoration Hall, coming live from Sweden in the year that marks Abba’s 50th anniversary of their 1974 win with ‘Waterloo’. We can’t wait!

Paul Sweeney, Huntingdon First Town Manager, said:

“What a night! The euphoria in the room was intoxicating, to see so many people gather to support the UK and our friends in Ukraine, and celebrate this year’s Eurovision Final. The room was bursting with pride as the UK hosted the event on behalf of Ukraine. Seeing the interval performance from past entrants with a mix of classic UK songs brought a huge cheer from the crowd; it felt like we were all present in Liverpool! We’re so incredibly proud of all the work that has gone into these screenings. Following the Coronation screenings last weekend, we’re so happy to have been a part of these landmark events in Huntingdon, once again showing the incredible community support in Huntingdon”

Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Dr Nik Johnson said:

“It was a real joy to open the Eurovision screening event at the Commemoration Hall in Huntingdon. Eurovision is such an iconic cultural event, made even more special by it being hosted in the UK on behalf of Ukraine, and it was entirely fitting that the Commemoration Hall, known for supporting the arts throughout its 180 year history, was screening the event for the local community. The organisers put in such a lot of hard work in hosting the event, and it was wonderful to see the community come together at this culturally important venue to enjoy an evening of international music. The Combined Authority was thrilled to be able to help fund this event via a grant from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS)”

BID Huntingdon First would like to thank the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and the UK Government for supporting and contributing to the funding of these screenings and to the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) for securing the funding.