Londonderry to be UK's first City of Culture in 2013

London, July 16 (ANI): Londonderry will be the first British City of Culture in 2013, it was announced on Thursday night. he title, which comes with no Government funding, is designed to help areas boost their economy through tourism and the creative industries, The Telegraph reports.

Londonderry, Northern Ireland's second city, had been competing against Birmingham, Norwich and Sheffield.

Brendan McMenamin, arts officer with Derry City Council and a member of the bidding team, said the win would boost the city's economic potential.

"It means a huge amount for the city, a huge amount," he said.

The last government, following Liverpool's success as European Capital of Culture in 2008, launched the competition. (ANI)