The Medway Messenger is throwing itself wholeheartedly behind Medway’s bid for city status.

We believe securing the title in 2012 will transform the five towns into one city, while retaining its own unique identity.

The Messenger has pledged its full support for the bid to unite Medway because we believe it will be good for everyone who lives, works and visits the area.

Editor Bob Bounds said: "Sitting on the fence is not an option. We have considered the options and believe that success with a city bid would reflect where Medway is going."

Medway council leader Cllr Rodney Chambers said: "I am very pleased that the prestigious Medway Messenger newspaper has added its support to the city campaign. Medway is already a city in all but name.

"Having the full support of such an important and respected media organisation as the KM Group will help us to tell people across the country why our area should gain, and deserves to gain, city status."

He added: "City status would be a recognition of where we already are and what we have achieved in Medway.

"Medway has come a long way since the naval dockyard closed 26 years ago.

"It has a population of 255,000, four universities, a famous cathedral, a Football League club, superb transport and trade links, a world-famous historic dockyard, a £6 billion programme of regeneration, rural areas and a great river setting.

"Medway is a place with a rich heritage and undoubtedly has a great future.

"Most importantly of all, I believe it is the people that make Medway. It is our strong, diverse, talented, vibrant community who will champion our city credentials."

Cllr Howard Doe, the portfolio holder for community services, said: "It is great news that the Medway Messenger has thrown its weight behind the bid for city status.

"I am pleased to welcome the newspaper and its readers on board and look forward to working with them between now and 2012 to win city status for Medway."

Among the earliest supporters of the bid are international pop giants Status Quo, singer, actor and entertainer Will Young, and the University for the Creative Arts.

At least 10 other bids are being drawn up by Bolton, Croydon, Ipswich, Luton, Middlesbrough, Milton Keynes, Perth, Reading, Swindon and Wrexham.

What do you think of Medway’s bid for city status? Whatever your views, we want to hear from you. Leave your comments below, e-mail medwaymessenger@thekmgroup.co.uk or write to Medway Messenger newsdesk, Medway House, Sir Thomas Longley Road, Medway City Estate, Strood, ME2 4DU.