Actor backs Sheffield's bid to become 2013 City of Culture

Roger Bingham spearheaded the Save the Lyceum campaign in 1969 and said he was happy to throw his weight behind the drive which could see Sheffield win the honour in 2013.

Mr Bingham was recently cast alongside Sir Anthony Sher in An Enemy of the People, the production which reopened The Crucible Theatre in February 2010 after a 15m refit.

Arts experts recognise that Sheffield has the biggest theatre complex outside London and Mr Bingham's campaign to save the Lyceum is credited with making that possible.

The actor, who has also has recently appeared on television in programmes such as of Heartbeat, Doctors, Crossroads and Midsomer Murders, said he felt proud of his home city.

He added: "I was joint founder of the campaign to save the Lyceum Theatre in 1969 when it closed and was faced with demolition. This kept me active for six years until the building was 'listed' and its future made safe.

"I have acted in many long tours of the UK and cannot think of a city more entitled and better equipped to be City of Culture than the excitingly vital new Sheffield."

Paul Billington, Director of Culture at Sheffield City Council, who is leading Sheffield's bid to be UK City of Culture in 2013, concludes: "Roger is a true Sheffield ambassador and a cultural legend. "He is a shining example of what Sheffield can achieve through its determination and with the support of its people."

To find out more visit www.sheffieldcityofculture.com