Oxford's European Capital of Culture bid has received a £200,000 boost.

Last week, Oxford Inspires Ltd, the company formed to co-ordinate Oxford's Capital of Culture project, held its first board meeting, and bid partners Oxford Brookes University, Oxford City Council, Oxfordshire County Council and the University of Oxford confirmed the extra funding for projects.

The £50,000 commitment from each of the four partners adds to the £160,000 already spent.

Last month, Oxford joined Newcastle/Gateshead, Birmingham, Cardiff, Liverpool and Bristol as the finalists for the 2008 title.

The board is also inviting other organisations in the South East to add their support to the bid, which is focusing on Oxford's links with children's literature and the redevelopment of the canal basin on the site of the Worcester Street car park.

By making the final shortlist, Oxford has won the right to be a ture in 2008, even if it does not win outright, and the board is making plans to use this money to build a programme of events.

Paul Langford, Chair of Oxford Inspires, said: "Oxford has the perfect mix of stunning treasures and dynamic creativity to represent 21st century Britain."

The board is now forming a team to lead the second stage of the bid when bid co-ordinator Joe Simpson leaves at the end of the month.

Mr Simpson said: "We have always said that we were working for the long-term interests of the city and county and Oxford is now guaranteed centre of culture status."

The final decision is expected in May 2003.

Oxford's bid offers 12 monthly events of excellence in 2008 as well as a 366-day festival.