BEING named the first British Capital of Culture could help Durham shed its “invisible city” image.

Ian Thompson, Durham County Council’s corporate director for regeneration and economic development, said although Durham was one of the most beautiful heritage cities, most national broadsheet newspaper journalists could not point it out on a map.

However, winning the inaugural title could make people in the county feel better about themselves and bring wide-ranging economic benefits.

“Our bid could signal a new start for County Durham as a whole, projecting a positive, confident image and reversing economic decline and national perceptions,” he said.

“It would send a powerful signal to the region and the country that County Durham is an area with great potential, demonstrating a shared commitment among those involved to inspire our citizens and transform their prospects.”

Durham was one of the first to throw its hat into the ring after Culture Secretary Andy Burnham announced the creation of a British Capital of Culture prize in January.

The title, which comes with the promise of hosting flagship cultural events, such as the Brits and BBC Sports Personality of the Year, will first be awarded for 2011.

Durham’s bid, which has secured £500,000 in sponsorship from the County Durham Partnership, came before councillors for the first time yesterday.

Council leader Simon Henig said: “This is an exciting development. We hope this will be a bid for the whole of the North-East to get behind.

“We think we have the resources, in terms of buildings and people, to rival any other potential bid, wherever it may be from. Cities a lot bigger may bid, but we feel we’ve got an offer to equal anyone else. We hope all members of the public will get behind us.”

The bid, will have three themes:

■ Cultural City – Cultural County. Aimed at reconnecting Durham City and the surrounding county;

■ Creative Durham – activities to promote cultural life and creativity;

■ Festival Durham – a programme of events and festivals.

The Government is expected to announce further details of the initiative within weeks.