News story

Derry/Londonderry is UK City of Culture 2013

Derry/Londonderry is celebrating tonight as it becomes the UK’s first ever city of culture

• From: Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport and Ed Vaizey
• Published: 15 July 2010

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Derry/Londonderry beat three other finalists, Birmingham, Norwich and Sheffield to the title. Its passion and commitment to culture, its strong cultural programme and support from communities across the city, all contributed to Derry/Londonderry’s winning bid.

Derry/Londonderry will become a focus for national attention in 2013 and could host high-profile events including the Turner Prize, BBC Sports Personality of the Year, The Brits and the RIBA Stirling Prize as part of its year in the spotlight.

Culture Minister Ed Vaizey and Phil Redmond announced the result in Liverpool this evening.

Further information

• Read the news release
• Liam Neeson blogs for Derry/Londonderry

Published 15 July 2010