ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at how the search for city status moved decisively into the promotional arena in conjunction with convenient royal events. Until the 1970s the Home Office was able to implement with reasonable efficiency its checklist of qualifications for city status. It had been bounced into making Southampton a city, but this was hardly a significant precedent, given that it was acknowledged to be the next candidate in the pecking order. Sunderland was quick to emphasize the boost which the town had received as a result of city status. It argued in 1999, seven years after its promotion, that city status has had a major positive impact on Sunderland. It has boosted pride in the City and raised the image of Sunderland nationally. While Sunderland was revelling in its success, Chester was rather more modestly celebrating victory in the 1992 lord mayoralty competition.
