We Are Pompey: Cameron backs the city of culture bid as Portsmouth "means everything" to him

Portsmouth is bidding to become the 2029 City of Culture.

Here we meet one of the people in the city backing the bid - and find out why Portsmouth is so special to them.

Cameron Locke - volunteer at Make and Mary Rose

Cameron is a talented artist and maker who volunteers for charity craft workshop Make in Fratton. He also volunteers at the Mary Rose and is a board trustee member at Portsmouth Creates.

Why Cameron’s backing the bid

He said: “Portsmouth means everything to me. When I think of the city, Southsea seafront and the Spinnaker Tower come to mind. What makes Portsmouth different is how community driven we are. There’s so much history and heritage in the heart of the city.

“I see exhibitions, community events and activities as part of the creativity and culture in everyday life in Portsmouth. People come together and support each other and celebrate all of the city’s achievements. Being an island city and the growth and development of the young people is what inspires me about Portsmouth.

“Portsmouth deserves to be City of Culture so the city can reach the highest levels and show why we’re the best and only island city on the south coast.

“By 2029 hopefully we will have made more improvements to make creativity in the disabled and neurodivergent community more accessible and inclusive. And also to open up more opportunities for the youth and help their development in the future.”

Portsmouth in three words: Inspiring, historic, togetherness

Behind the Bio / Pompey Particulars:

Cameron loves to watch Pompey and is a season ticket holder with the club. He also loves to go to Victorious Festival every summer.