PAISLEY will find out within days if it has won the race to become UK City of Culture in 2021.

An announcement will be made live on The One Show, on BBC One, shortly before 7.30pm on Thursday, December 7.

Paisley is up against Coventry, Stoke-on-Trent, Sunderland and Swansea in the battle to secure the money-spinning title.

The bid has been backed by some of the town’s most high-profile figures, including singer Paolo Nutini, actor Gerard Butler and artist John Byrne, as well as business leaders and politicians from all parties.

It is expected that, if successful, Paisley will benefit from a £172million economic boost.

Experts have also said City of Culture status would help to create the equivalent of 4,700 jobs over a 10-year period.

The UK Government’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport will decide the winner, with the announcement being made by Arts Minister John Glen on The One Show.

Jean Cameron, director of Paisley’s 2021 bid, said: “As we near the end of the competition for UK City of Culture 2021, we are proud to have engaged with more than 34,000 people from Paisley, right across Renfrewshire and further afield.

“Our bid has generated lots of goodwill and encouraged a new-found sense of pride and confidence.

“With the announcement just around the corner, we hope to bring home the title.”

For more details on the bid, visit www.paisley2021.co.uk.