Boris Johnson and GLA Director for Cultural Policy Munira Mirza visited London’s historic Hampton Court this morning to launch the Story of London, a month-long series of cultural events to celebrate the capital’s history and explore its future.
Major Johnson said the season would “show what an amazingly resilient city it is”. The events are aimed at Londoners and visitors alike and organisers are promising they’ll have broad appeal.
Referring to the current difficulties facing many families and businesses in the capital the Mayor commented: “throughout history we have faced lows as well as highs, but London constantly reinvents itself and the city and its people are always resilient and dynamic enough to weather the storm and come through stronger.”
As the Mayor announced June’s programme of events, he revealed that every pound spent promoting the capital in Europe and North America as a tourist destination brought in £10 and £36 pounds respectively. The figures come as Visit London embarks on major advertising campaigns in both territories.
Highlights of the Story of London season will include a river pageant marking the 500th anniversary of Henry VIII’s coronation, a Jazz & Film Weekender in partnership with the BFI and Ronnie Scott’s, guided walks and exhibitions at the Museum of London.
Mirza said the idea was to “support new types of event that showcase the brilliance of London, its history and society and its creativity.”
Although many of the events will involve well known attractions, organisers say events will be held at smaller venues across London including local museums and venues in outer London.
