Londonderry makes City of Culture shortlist

The announcement made just a few minutes ago confirmed that this city with compete with Birmingham, Norwich and Sheffield.

Mayor Paul Fleming said the move was a significant step forward.

"This is a great statement of confidence in the city's cultural wealth and an endorsement of the commitment and effort so far We look forward to building partnerships to progress through to the final stage".

Chief Executive of ILEX Aideen McGinley said: " The Chief Executive of Ilex Urban Regeneration Company, Aideen McGinley, said: "We're in this to win. The energy and commitment galvanised by the bid process to date will now re-double in the final push to bring together in a compelling way our cultural champions, venues, organisations and artists to showcase the unique talents of the city and region".

Encouraging the public to continue to get behind the bid by registering on www.cityofculture2013.com or to follow progress on Facebook, Chief Executive and Town Clerk of Derry City Council, Valerie Watts concluded:

"Everyone has a role to play. They can share the good news with their family and friends, go on-line to register support, and come up with new ideas. This is a unique opportunity to create a lasting legacy for the city and for Northern Ireland".