'Centenary events have shown unity'

THIS year, we are celebrating something truly special - one hundred years since our city was officially granted its status by King George V.

- Councillor Steve Watkins - Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent

It’s a time for pride, honouring our rich history and, most importantly, for celebrating what makes Stoke-on-Trent the incredible place it is today - our people.

Recently, I had the honour of presiding over a special citizenship ceremony where we welcomed 100 new British citizens in the magnificent surroundings of the King’s Hall - the same place King George V officially conferred city status.

Normally, these ceremonies are small, intimate gatherings, but this was different.

To mark 100 years of our city, we brought together 100 people, each with their own story, journey and reasons for calling Stoke-on-Trent home.