Norwich shortlisted as City of Culture

Ben Kendall Norwich is in the running to become the UK's first City of Culture, it was announced today.Culture minister Margaret Hodge announced the final four cities vying for the title in 2013. Support Norwich on FacebookOfficial Norwich 2013 bid website

Ben Kendall

Norwich is in the running to become the UK's first City of Culture, it was announced today.

Culture minister Margaret Hodge announced the final four cities vying for the title in 2013. They are Birmingham, Derry/Londonderry, Norwich and Sheffield.

They were shortlisted by an independent judging panel, whose recommendations were accepted by secretary of sate Ben Bradshaw. The panel will also make the final recommendation on the winning bid, with that city to be announced in the summer.

Mrs Hodge said: “Huge congratulations to the four cities in the final running for the 2013 UK City of Culture. It's a testament to their hard work - and dedication to culture - that they've come so far in what has proven to be a very tough competition. I'm really pleased that we attracted such a strong and varied field. It just goes to show the richness of culture across the UK.

“I was very impressed with all fourteen bids and, for those not shortlisted, I would say take heart from what you've achieved and continue to work on creating a cultural offer which can be enjoyed by all and which will help to make your cities even more attractive places in which to live and work”.

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Support Norwich on FacebookOfficial Norwich 2013 bid website