Bradford's Capital of Culture bid was backed by its big city rival Leeds and an Eastern European delegate in a partnership sealed with a handshake yesterday.

Representatives from Brno in the Czech republic met chief executive of Bradford Council Ian Stewart to discuss the possibility of the two cities sharing the European Capital of Culture title in 2008.

Under Capital of Culture rules, western European cities taking the title between 2005 and 2019 must share it with eastern European cities.

Brno, the second most important city in the Czech Republic after Prague, is backing Bradford's bid and plans to make its own bid for 2008.

The first step of the new cultural partnership took place at Leeds Millennium Square where the chief executives of both Bradford and Leeds councils, Ian Stewart and Paul Rogerson, met and shook hands in front of a striking statue called Both Hands. created by the late sculptor Richard Wilson, the brass and stone statue depicts two hands holding each other.

With the council chiefs was a delegation from Brno, which is a Partner City of Leeds.

Mr Stewart said: "The meeting location is symbolic - hands of friendship are being extended not only across the border between the two districts, but also right across Europe.

"This is a new era of mutual co-operation with a long-term partnership that will take both great cities forward."

Mr Paul Loutoky, chief executive of Brno Council, said: "We are very happy to support Bradford's Capital of Culture bid and to be able to take part in the competition. With the Czech Republic due to enter the European Union, it is a great opportunity to work with other European cities."

Bradford bid director Paul Brookes said the support of Brno was a boost for the district's bid.

"Some eastern European cities will wait to see who the British winner is, but we have already had a pledge of support from Brno. The city will now make an application to the Czech Government to go forward for the 2008 title."

Bradford is the only city in Yorkshire bidding for the 2008 title and Leeds is the first neighbouring authority to formally support the district's bid.

Mr Rogerson said: "We are delighted to offer support for Bradford's bid. Like other towns and cities across the region, we recognise that Bradford's success will bring benefit to all those who live, work and do business in the wider region.

"We are particularly pleased that Leeds' Partner City of Brno - with whom we are seeking to build closer and stronger links - has agreed to take part in the competition and to lend their own support to Bradford's bid.

Pictured: Mr Rpgerson, left, Mr Loutoky and Mr Stewart are pictured under the Both Hands statue.l