A CAMPAIGN to involve the public in setting a city's cultural agenda was launched this week.

Sunderland's award-winning Museum and Winter Gardens was the venue for the launch of the city council's draft local cultural strategy.

It followed a Government request for all local authorities to produce strategies reflecting how culture is at the centre of people's lives and showing how it can be developed to regenerate areas.

Over the past year, research carried out in Sunderland found that people were proud of the city's heritage, natural assets, historic monuments and new attractions such as the Museum and Winter Gardens.

Their views were taken into account in drawing up the strategy, and the council is keen to receive further comments on the draft before producing a final version.

Councillor Brian Dodds, cabinet member for culture, arts, sport and leisure, said: "We want people who live, work or study in Sunderland, as well as visitors, to tell us what kind of cultural activities they are interested in, what makes them feel proud of Sunderland, and what cultural activities they would like to see more of in the city.

"Sunderland has been transformed in recent years and now offers a vast choice of cultural experiences."

Sunderland is the country's only local authority to hold two Beacon awards for culture - for its regeneration through culture, sport and tourism, and its libraries.

A leaflet on the local cultural strategy, containing eight aims and specific actions, outcomes and targets, will be delivered to every Sunderland home between Monday and November 8.

Copies of the full draft document will also be available from libraries, council offices, the Fawcett Street Tourist Information Centre, leisure centres, and other key attractions.

Alternatively, copies, including audiotape and translated versions, can be obtained by calling 0191-514 8477.

Comments must be submitted by November 30.