It’s a whopping 88 pages long and packed full of brilliant reasons why Milton Keynes should be open for the world. A huge document – outlining MK’s bid to become a World Cup 2018 host city – has now been delivered to the FA, kicking off the formal process to be part of the amazing global event.

The highly important document was sent on its way by Pete Winkelman of MK Dons, John Lewis and Dr Ann Limb of Milton Keynes Partnership, Geoff Snelson of Milton Keynes Council and Colin Fox of MK Economic and Learning Partnership. (pictured)

They are convinced the document makes a compelling case why MK should beat off competition from other areas and be one of the 8-12 host cities if the World Cup tournament takes place in England in 2018.

“Everyone has worked extremely hard on our proposal to convince the FA that Milton Keynes is more than capable of playing host to one of the world’s biggest and most exciting sporting events,” said Dr Ann Limb, of Milton Keynes Partnership and Chair of the MK 2018 Board.

The next big stage in the bid competition takes place next week when Inspectors from the FA are due to visit the city to view its suitability as a host city.

During their day-long visit on July 21 they will take into consideration not only the stadium and training grounds for World Cup matches, but other factors such as leisure facilities and transport infrastructure for fans.

Geoff Snelson from Milton Keynes Council said: “We realise we are up against some well established bigger cities, but we are confident we have so much to offer as a young, adaptable and vibrant new town that is a shining example to modern Britain.”

Pete Winkelman added that people who live and work in MK also have an important part to play by clicking on to the FA’s World Cup 2018 website to register their support for the city at www.england2018bid.co.uk/hostcity/miltonkeynes

“The fight to put our city on the global map has only just begun,” he said. “It’s now time for our residents to speak up and show the FA that they are as proud of this city as we are. We want everyone – football fans or not – to log on and support our bid. We need to show the FA that our residents are behind us and have every faith that we can deliver on this exciting challenge.”

Cllr Sam Crooks, Council Leader commented: “This would be a massive boost for Milton Keynes as well as a big challenge – but we know that we are more than ready for it and we will be pulling out all the stops to make sure the judges agree with us.”