Gordon Brown's message to Liverpool on Culture night

Jan 11 2008 By Gordon Brown, prime minister

 AM delighted to offer my congratulations and best wishes to the city of Liverpool at the start of your year as European Capital of Culture.

The quality and diversity of culture in Britain is truly world class, and this fantastic programme, drawing on culture from all around the world, provides the perfect opportunity to showcase the contribution that Liverpool makes to our world-class reputation.

There is music – the Beatles, of course, but so many other great singers, bands and performers before and since.

There is football – Liverpool and Everton, two clubs with extraordinary tradition and success to their name.

There are the great buildings and the atmosphere – this is the most filmed city in the UK, apart from London.

And this is the place where people visit museums and galleries more often than anywhere else in the UK.

People are going to come from across Britain and Europe and further afield – and from right across the city.

And I know that the people of Liverpool are going to provide an enthusiastic audience and very warm welcome to visitors.

So I wish Liverpool every success with Capital of Culture year in 2008, and beyond, and I look forward to the celebrations.