THE cultural differences between rural villages and major cities will be discussed by a panel of leading writers artists and historians in South Lakeland next month.

The annual Arts Council England, North West debate will take place at Kendal's Brewery Arts Centre on June 8 and will examine the development of English culture in rural areas and cities and ask whether places like Manchester and Liverpool are more English than Kendal and the Lakes.

The debate is being held in association with BBC Radio 3's arts programme, Night Waves, and will form part of the programme for the fourth annual regional spotlight on the arts - art07.

Head of speech programmes at BBC Radio 3 Abigail Appleton said: "We're delighted to be holding this discussion in Kendal in association with Arts Council England, North West, and expect the audience will have as strong views on this topical issue as the panel."

The debate will be hosted by writer and broadcaster Matthew Sweet, and tickets for the event, which takes place in the afternoon, are free.

Executive director of the Arts Council England, North West Michael Eakin said: "The topic of this year's agenda aims to get people thinking and encourage them to air their views and opinions throughout the day at art07.

"A significant issue of our time, it's important that people discuss and air views from all sides, and art07 is an opportunity to provide a forum to allow this to take place."

For details about art07, visit the website at www.artscouncil.org.uk/art07 .