Memories sought for city's centenary

Lord Mayor, Councillor Lyn Sharpe unveiled the Stoke-on-Trent centenary logo

Residents have been asked to share memories of their city in the run up to its 100-year anniversary.

Stoke-on-Trent will be celebrating its centenary throughout 2025 with a year-long programme of events - including classical concerts, ballet and poetry competitions.

The city, famed for its pottery, was granted city status by King George V in June 1925.

An event to launch the city's centenary events was held at Gladstone Pottery Museum in Longton on Monday.

Residents attended a launch event for the celebrations at Gladstone Pottery Museum in Longton on Monday 15 July

In 1910, the first application for city status was refused by the Home Office because Stoke-on-Trent had fewer than 300,000 inhabitants.

But King George V changed that on 5 June 1925, when he granted Stoke-on-Trent city status, in recognition of its considerable contributions to the pottery industry.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council has asked residents who want to be involved in the celebrations and share their memories to come forward.

At the launch, held in Gladstone’s cobbled courtyard, Lord Mayor Lyn Sharpe unveiled a first look at the Stoke-on-Trent centenary logo for its events next year.

The celebrations will include events covering themes like civic life, children and young people, culture, heritage, community, environment and future.

Councillor Sharpe said events for next year included classical concerts, ballet and poetry competitions - but the city would also be "acknowledging its working class roots."

She said: "As a city we’re built on the coal and clay deposits under our feet but also on our strength in diversity.

"Whether you’ve lived here all your life, were born here and moved away, or came to live here recently, our centenary celebrations are for you.”

Council leader Jane Ashworth added: "I am passionate about our city.

“It was forged through its industrial past, built on layers of enterprise and craftsmanship, and infused by waves of migration.

"We’re a tightly-woven city where the importance of family, community and place all contribute to a strong sense of identity.

"It is a city of unusual kindness, where care for one another runs deep."