Derry/Londonderry is named city of culture 2013

Friday 16 July 10

Last night hundreds of people gathered in Derry’s Guildhall to hear the announcement that Derry/Londonderry would be city of culture in 2013.

A number of prestigious events could be hosted by Derry city such as the Brit awards and the Turner Prize.

The honour however dose not come with any direct government funding but bid organisers are hoping to use it as a focus for funding regeneration.

Plans are already in place to hold a pageant on the River Foyle celebrating the return St Columba, to Ireland, a contemporary music festival and a visual arts festival.

Deputy First Minister Martin Mcguinness traveled to Liverpool to hear the announcement, and said that he was “over the moon”.

Further stating that, "We've won on our merits. This in an evening when hope and history rhymes in Derry,"

Derry/Londonderry won the achievement against other UK cities such as Birmingham, Sheffield and Norwich.