Sheffield on UK culture shortlist; Hull and Barnsley fail to make grade

The other cities are Birmingham, Norwich and Londonderry.

Culture Minister Margaret Hodge announced the line-up after bids from 14 long-listed cities were scrutinised by an independent panel.

The successful city will hold the title in 2013.

Sheffield City Council leader Paul Scriven said: "What fantastic news for the city. To be shortlisted to the final four just underlines the strength of our bid and Sheffield's future commitment to the arts and culture."

Sheffield-born actor Sean Bean said: "I am delighted to support Sheffield's bid to become the first UK City of Culture in 2013.

"Sheffield boasts an impressive array of cultural facilities, events and celebrations and is renowned for its diverse festivals around the city. As a city that prides itself on its history of creating culture, Sheffield has the passion and the capacity to make it happen."

Bids will be re-examined in June, then the panel will recommend a winner.

Ms Hodge congratulated the final four and said: "It's a testament to their hard work and dedication to culture that they've come so far in what has proven to be a very tough competition."

The capital of culture crown is expected to bring a multimillion-pound boost to the successful city.

Hull and Barnsley, both selected among the final 14 cities last December, did not make today's shortlist.