WARRINGTON will host an International Festival of Peace if it defies the odds to land the 2021 UK City of Culture title.

The Government is set to announce a final shortlist of four areas imminently.

Former mayor Geoff Settle urged the council to include, as part of the 2021 City of Culture bid, or earlier, the promise to make Warrington 'a town pledged to peace'.

He believes the 'Pledge to Peace' pack would bring further 'opportunities for schools, colleges and community groups to engage by creating works of art, literature, sport and much more'.

Cllr Dan Price, chairman of the Warrington 2021 City of Culture board, is confident the borough can, if shortlisted, stun the nation to secure the prestigious title when the winner is announced in December.

He also revealed plans for a peace festival at the Peace Centre in 2021.

"Our borough has been at the forefront from the Northern Ireland peace process thanks to the pioneering work of Colin and Wendy Parry and the ongoing cultural exchanges that Cllr Mike Hannon has championed, such as the Peace Cup," he said.

"Building on this well-established work, we have committed to hosting an International Festival of Peace should we be chosen as the UK City of Culture 2021.

"This would be delivered in conjunction with our bid supporters – the Foundation for Peace.

"The finer details are to be confirmed should we be shortlisted but we are confident that projects such as this set us apart from other bidders.

"Furthermore, I know with Colin and Wendy's incredible reputation, we would make a success of it.

"With regards to signing the Pledge to Peace, we will consult with the Foundation for Peace as an existing pledger and make a decision once shortlisting has been cleared."

The Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace has been shortlisted for the Rotary International Peace Award for its work in addressing 'the causes of violence before, during and after conflict situations as a means of promoting peace and understanding'.

This year's winner will be announced at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod festival on Monday at its 70th anniversary opening concert.

Nick Taylor, chief executive of the Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace, said: "We are extremely proud to have been considered for this award for our work supporting those affected by terrorism and conflict.

"We welcome the recognition of more than 20 years of working to promote peace by focusing on prevention, resolution and response and look forward to the award ceremony."