Lewisham has launched its bid to be crowned London Borough of Culture 2021 with support from some artists from the borough.

The 'We are Lewisham' launch at the newly-renovated Catford Mews Community Cinema brought councillors, stars and residents together to celebrate the borough's cultural triumphs.

Brockley musician Novelist and Lewisham-raised radio presenter Shahlaa Tahira appeared at the launch to support the bid.

Lewisham mayor Damien Egan said: "Our creative potential in Lewisham is limitless. We’re putting forward a bid that will help create a legacy that inspires young people.

"We’re ready to be the next borough of Culture."

The south east London borough was a hot contender for the borough of Culture in 2019 but it was pipped to the post by Waltham Forest.

Now cultural hubs across Lewisham have come together to battle with other London boroughs for the top spot.

The IRIE! Dance Theatre, Goldsmiths University, the Albany theatre, the Horniman Museum and Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance are all getting involved in the campaign.

Cllr André Bourne said: "Lewisham is such a diverse borough and that diversity is our strength.

"There is a community spirit here that is authentic and not found anywhere else in London. We deserve to win this bid and showcase our talent across London and beyond.

"Now is our time."

The councillor added destinations like the pop up Model Market and Catford Mews make the borough a brilliant contender.

The winning borough, which is awarded more than £1 million in arts funding, will be announced by London mayor Sadiq Khan in January 2020