By Danielle Smith: Worthy Stoke-on-Trent citizens of past and present have been nominated for one of the city’s top accolades.

Singer Robbie Williams and darts champ Phil Taylor take their place alongside more historic figures like spitfire designer Reginald Mitchell

The ‘Citizen Of The Century’ shortlist consists of ten individuals who have been educated, worked or lived in Stoke from 1910-2010 and have made a significant contribution to their chosen field.

Among the candidates are famous faces from the city over the last 100 years.

Williams is the youngest nominee, aged 35.

Jack Ashley, an MP for Stoke-on-Trent South, and the UK’s first completely deaf MP, is also nominated along with Doug Brown, who twice served as Lord Mayor for the city.

Ross Irving, City Council Leader and judge of the competition, said: “We feel the award will be a lasting legacy to whoever is chosen, and will be remembered as one of the most important figures in the entire history of Stoke-on-Trent.”

The late Sir Stanley Matthews faces competition from Duchess Millicent, an activist for social reform, while Reginald Mitchell, designer of the spitfire is nominated for his contribution to engineering.

Arnold Bennett, a novelist who wrote ‘The Clayhanger’ trilogy, is also up for the prize.

The recipient will receive the  award at a Federation Dinner held on March 31 at The King’s Hall in Stoke.