Queen's Birthday honour for Liverpool Culture Boss

Liverpool’s Director of Culture Claire McColgan has been made a CBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

McColgan, who is already an MBE for services to culture – awarded for her role in driving the city’s Capital of Culture celebrations – said she was “truly made up” and ‘humbled” to receive the new accolade announced today.

It has been awarded in recognition of the role she played in the Government’s Events Research Programme as well as her contribution to the national arts and culture scene.

She is currently vice chairman of the UK City of Culture Board as well as a member of the City Region Cultural Partnership and Visitor Economy Board and is also a Town Centre Commissioner for the City Region.

Along with Capital of Culture, during her 22 years at the City Council, McColgan has also overseen some of the biggest public events ever staged in Liverpool including the Giants, Cunard’s Three Queens and, most recently, the 2019 and 2022 LFC victory parades.

She said: “I’m truly made up to receive the CBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours and am humbled that I’ve been recognised nationally for the work I deliver, which has roots in this city that I love.

Above: The Giant Spectacular in 2018. Top; Claire McColgan - photo courtesy of Liverpool City Council

“There are always loads of people behind these awards – they’re never about the individual, and I’d like to thank the Culture Liverpool team, who I truly love. They’ve delivered every mad idea (and stopped me from some) and made me laugh every single day.

“From the newest recruit to the ones who have been there with me through it all, the city is lucky to have these unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure Liverpool retains its cultural crown at all times.

“I’d also like to thank Liverpool City Council because over the last 20 years it’s given me, and the brilliant creatives of this city and beyond, the chance to prove that with a long-term vision, legacy is not just a nice to have, it can transform the economic prosperity of a place.

“So for a girl from Corby thank you for the recognition, thanks to my team but above all, thanks to the best platform in the world.”