Cornish town with 1,440 residents seeks to become UK’s smallest city

Marazion, opposite St Michael's Mount, faces stiff opposition from larger areas in contest for city status

It may not boast a cathedral, a university or a major sports team - the sort of features often associated with a typical British metropolis. But the town of Marazion (population 1,440), perched prettily on the south coast of Cornwall, has nevertheless launched a bold campaign for city status.

Marazion, which does have a couple of churches, a primary school and rowing and sailing clubs, would become the smallest and most southerly city if its proposal is accepted.