COMMUNITY leaders believe an historic Suffolk town would stand a good chance at becoming a city to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

There was discussion in 1999 about whether a bid should be made for Bury St Edmunds to become a city as part of the millennium celebrations, but in the end it was felt there was not enough support.

The market town, which boasts a cathedral, has another chance to gain city status – a rarely granted award – as local authorities have been invited to bid as part of celebrations for the Queen’s 60 years on the throne in 2012.

Senior figures at Ipswich Borough Council are also weighing up whether to launch the town’s fourth city bid in 20 years.

Bob Cockle, chairman of Bury St Edmunds Town Council, said there was a “strong possibility” the town council may wish to submit an application.

He said: “We are up and coming and I think the town needs to be recognised because of that. It would be a great honour.”

Local authorities have six months to submit their entries, which will be considered by the Government before recommendations are submitted to the Queen.