Will Norwich Be the First UK City of Culture?

26 Feb 2010

The final shortlist of cities in the running to become the UK's first city of culture has been announced.

Fourteen cities were whittled down to four hopefuls all of whom will compete to become the city of culture on 2013.

The four cities to make it through the selection process are Birmingham, Derry/Londonderry, Norwich and Sheffield. The cities were chosen by an independent judging panel. Their recommendations were accepted by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Ben Bradshaw. One of the four cities will eventually be crowned the winner in the summer.

Commenting on the announcement Margaret Hodge, minister for Culture and tourism said: "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."

The idea of the competition is to replicate the success of Liverpool when it was European Capital of Culture in 2008.

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It's hoped that the successful city will see huge economic and social benefits through investment and tourism. It is hoped that this will leave a lasting legacy for the city. The title will be given out every four years and landmark cultural events such as the Brits and Turner prize resident in the host city.

Their were originally 29 areas in the running for city including a bid from the "countryside" however, only four  now remain in the  running.
 
The four shortlisted cities now have until the 28th May to finalise their bid and to announce their cultural credentials in order to impress the judging panel.

However, bookmakers William Hill have tipped Norwich to take the prestigious title. The city is currently 6/4 favourite. They make Sheffield 9/4 second favourite, with Birmingham 3/1 third favourite, and Londonderry the 4/1 outsider.

In a statement William Hill spokesperson Graham Sharpe said: 'The announcement of the winner is expected to be made in June or July, and we think it is a very open looking race, with all four runners in with a decent chance. However, we just favour Norwich to come out on top."

 All odds correct at time of writing and are subject to change.