Oxford's moment of truth is fast approaching as the city prepares to put its case to the European Capital of Culture judges.
A poll on TV saw Oxford finish last when viewers were asked to choose from the six cities shortlisted for the 2008 title.
A panel, chaired by Sir Jeremy Isaacs, will hear arguments in favour of Oxford. The city's close ties across Europe could provide a winning card.
Robert Hutchison, chief executive of Oxford Inspires, the consortium behind the bid, believes the BBC poll will carry little weight with the panel.
He predicted that the judging panel would be more impressed by Oxford's place at the heart of Europe.
"We are genuinely the most European of the shortlisted cities," he said.
The Oxford team will meet the judging panel for a final interview at the Department of Culture in London on May 20.
The team will highlight plans for cultural exchanges and twinning links with Europe.
The Oxford team will include: Jasmen Sidwha, of the Pegasus Theatre, and Andrew Nairne, director of Modern Art Oxford. They will join Mr Hutchison, the chief executive of Oxfordshire County Council, Dr Richard Shaw and Oxford Inspires chairman, Paul Langford.
The other shortlisted cities are: Liverpool, Birmingham, Newcastle/Gateshead, Bristol and Cardiff.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article