The funding will support an ambitious, year-long programme of events and activities, showcasing and celebrating the city, its landscape, architecture and people in new and imaginative ways.

Sir Peter Luff, Chair of HLF, said: "This is an exciting opportunity to celebrate and share Hull’s story; one that includes bitter Civil War, a role in Britain’s status as a seafaring nation, inspirational stories of the abolitionist movement; and tales of luminaries of British music and film. We’re proud to be supporting this year-long cultural event and look forward to working closely with the City of Culture team as they develop their programming ideas.

[quote=Sir Peter Luff, Chair of HLF]"This is an exciting opportunity to celebrate and share Hull’s story."[/quote]

"HLF’s involvement is thanks to National Lottery players and we hope that our £3m investment will help make a positive impact on Hull’s public profile and economic wellbeing."

Hull is only the second city to hold the title of UK City of Culture, and the first in England.

Visit the Hull 2017 website for more information on the events for 2017 and the UK City of Culture programme.