Birmingham is global jewel in the crown as 'World Craft City'

BIRMINGHAM has been awarded a prestigious global accolade for its heritage in the jewellery and craft trade.

- TAMLYN JONES Business Correspondent

It has been granted 'World Craft City' status following a fact-finding mission in April by an international panel of judges from the World Crafts Council.

The honour puts Birmingham and its historic Jewellery Quarter in the same group as just seven other European cities including Bornholm in Denmark and Stoke-on-Trent, recognising its global significance as a centre of craftsmanship and creativity.

The honour is awarded to an area where there has been excellent social, cultural and economic contributions from local communities.

The bid for the status was submitted last year, led jointly by Jewellery Quarter Development Trust and Birmingham City University with support from the city council and Goldsmiths Company.