Celebrity designer Linda Barker is supporting Bradford's bid to become European Capital of Culture - by calling for the district's architectural jewels to be opened to the public.
Bradford girl Linda, 39, best known as one of the interior designers on BBC1's Changing Rooms, said Bradford's bid was "excellent news" and the district has a lot to offer.
And she has given a big thumbs-up to the Telegraph & Argus campaign, which is backing the culture bid by encouraging Bradford people to put forward ideas for it.
"It's important for people to get involved," she said. "I think it's great that Bradford is going for this. If you look at how well Glasgow did as city of culture, it shows what a boost this title can be in terms of recognition and regeneration. I'm sure Bradford can be just as successful.
"It's a real chance for Bradford to show off some of its cultural gems - not just in the arts but in terms of its fantastic buildings as well.
"There are so many buildings of architectural importance in Bradford - both old and new - but often people don't really notice them.
"I'd like to see these buildings opened up to the public. There are similar schemes where I live in London which work really well and it could translate to Bradford. "It would give people a chance to look around places like the lovely old mills and brand new architectural designs and really appreciate them properly."
Brought up on a farm in Shelf, Linda went to what was then Bradford Girls' Grammar School before going on to do an art foundation course at Percival Whitley College in Halifax, now Calderdale College.
She has happy childhood memories of visiting Cartwright Hall's art galleries, which developed her interest in art and design, and says culture is thriving in Bradford.
"There are lots of successful arts projects in Bradford involving all sections of the community," she said.
"It's important for communities to have a focus. Another capital of culture event I'd like is having arts projects running throughout the year - with artists working in public places, showing people how they work - culminating in a weekend-long summer event like a big arts and music festival.
"It could be a great community event - involving everyone, from schoolchildren to local artists and bands."
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