Recognition as a city is what Colchester “rightly deserves,” the town’s MP has said.

Will Quince revealed he is backing the plans after Colchester Council put forward plans to submit a bid for city status.

The Government is seeking bids from across the UK to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Now, Colchester MP Will Quince has said he is supporting the bid.

He said: “When the Romans arrived in Britain, Colchester was their first destination to create a garrison which became the ‘City of the Victorious’ and to this day our garrison proudly serves HM The Queen, our nation’s interests and helps Britain’s standing in the world.

“Our dynamic economy, nationally recognised award-winning cultural and heritage assets and internationally renowned university provide outstanding opportunities for all.

“Colchester has been on the map for over two thousand years and being awarded city status would be befitting of a status rightly deserved.”

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