In just seven hours we will discover if Paisley is crowned UK City of Culture 2021 — a title that promises to change the town forever.

The honour, which meant little to Buddies just two years ago, today encapsulates the hopes of thousands of families, desperate to see their hometown given the break it so richly deserves.

More than 5,000 new jobs to help hard-up adults back into work and a £175million windfall to showcase the town’s historical and architectural gems are the foundation of the promising 2021 vision.

But it’s the tantalising prospect of the biggest stars in music arriving in town for Radio 1’s Big Weekend and hosting the world-famous Turner Prize that has really set pulses racing.

In total, 35,000 people ploughed their time and energy into an exciting bid process, which was expertly orchestrated by Renfrewshire Council.

The past 24 months turned naysayers into believers and rekindled a community spirit that has been dampened by decades of deprivation and hard luck tales.

Tonight, that pessimism can finally be consigned to Paisley’s past and the town can look forward to a proud future — no matter the result.

Ahead of tonight’s big announcement on The One Show, there has been a lot of love for the Paisley Daily Express #whyilovepaisley campaign on social media.

@YMCAPaisley said: “Today is the day that the lord has made we will rejoice and be glad in it.

“Whatever the result, whatever the outcome #Paisley is ready and able.”

@redEvelyn told us: “I love the sound of the town hall clock. Been listening to it since I was a wean. So glad it recently got its bongs back.”

Morag Malloy on @Solo_Mo said: “The amazing programme of activities over the last few years and swell of talented ambitious people proves that #Paisley doesn’t *need* a title to thrive and inspire.

“But it shows it deserves it.”

Karen Hanvidge @KarenHCeramics says: “#Paisley has culture in abundance and the potential to deliver so much more in 2021!

“We need to win @Paisley2021 to continue to bring the soul back for our Buddies!”

@jamiemallan says: “#WhyILovePaisley - It contains Ferguslie Park, that, despite it’s challenges, has produced talented people such as Joe Egan, Gerry Rafferty, Kelly Marie and @Paisley2021’s very own @jeanmcameron.”

The InCube Renfrewshire team @InCube_Ren say: “We have so many talented and passionate designers and makers who live and breathe energy and creativity here.

“Such an inspiring place to work !”

Kirsten Kininmonth @kinny25 praised Paisley, saying: “Without my time studying at Paisley I would not have the career I have, the friends I have or the family I have.

“So much more to offer than most people realise.”

Holly McCormack @Hollz2012 said: “ Born in #Paisley and lived here all my life. Whenever I go abroad, I see it on the clothes of every other person.

“We are global, iconic and deserve to regenerate like Dr Who himself.”

Proud @EuanHayton shared: “I love Paisley because of the great heritage it has, because of the famous faces it has given Scotland and because of the architecture of the fantastic buildings.”

Claire Casey- Writer using @CCaseyWriter told us: “I’ve been to the top of the Abbey tower, a couple of times on Doors Open Day.

“Such great views and always reminds me how beautiful Paisley is.”

@stuartkearney58 says: “A town steeped in culture that’s had many hard years, this is the opportunity to rejuvenate and galvanise Scotland’s biggest town.”

The team at The STAR Project @STARprojPaisley explained: “@Paisley2021 has helped us to express ourselves, to be creative and to shine.”