The leader of Bradford Council says winning Capital of Culture status could mean an extra 3,000 jobs for the district.

Councillor Margaret Eaton said these are exciting times as the Bradford district makes its bid to become European Capital of Culture in 2008.

"An enormous amount of hard work has gone into developing an innovative people-based bid, which has been supported by hundreds of ideas from members of the public and the business community," she said.

"The help and support of leading public and business figures on the Campaign Executive Board, chaired by Sir Michael Bichard, and the commitment of Lord Puttnam who spearheaded the Capital of Culture Partnership Board, shows the power of partnerships. Such an approach reflects the way ahead on many fronts for the district."

She says the variety of contributions have meant the city has put together a bid based around "the imagination, energy and diversity of those who live, learn, work and enjoy this great district".

Coun Eaton added: "In terms of local investment and jobs, comparative studies show European Capital of Culture status could be expected to create more than 3,000 jobs and generate over half a billion pounds of investment.

"It would spell good news for the district's expanding creative industries and new technology sector as well as attract new retailers keen to be associated with a new-look city.

"The district's successful tourism industry is another area which would see major benefits."

She says the success of Glasgow's bid in 1990 provided the inspiration for Bradford's case. In Glasgow, a climate of high unemployment coupled with a poor public image has been transformed over the last decade.

"I believe Bradford district's decision to throw its hat into the ring and go for this European title is a positive step forward in delivering Bradford's 2020 Vision for a stronger and more dynamic economy.

"Bradford has endured some difficult times recently and this bid displays the district's unshakable belief in its ability to win through.

"The countdown is underway and the bid's first hurdle will be to make the shortlisting stage later this year before challenging for the main prize in 2003."