Brutalism, brilliant beers and the Baltic triangle: 20 reasons to love Birmingham

Birmingham is delighted to host the Commonwealth Games. This offers the town a chance to be in the spotlight for something positive, rather than being called "godawful" by an MP or having its accent voted the worst in the UK. As a city, Brum is ready to show its personality and culture, as well as its ability to throw a big party (the opening ceremony). If you've ever overlooked or dismissed the second city, it's time to think again. Here are 20 reasons to change your mind.

Brummies have a passion for sports. Birmingham City v Aston Villa is one of the most intense rivalries in the country, but for the most part fans know where to draw the line. The rivalry is a world away from the religious intolerance of Glasgow or the tired banter of Manchester. Jonathan Liew called it righteous when he said, "The second City derby is perhaps the one best characterized by glorious, joyful pettiness." role="supporting" data-spacefinder-type="model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.ImageBlockElement" class="dcr-1sioudk">the Football League (forcing fans to learn to care about every game, even wet Wednesdays at Walsall).

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