The man who will spearhead Oxford's bid to become the European Capital of Culture 2008 has been named.

Joe Simpson, 50, from London, will spend ten months working on the city's bid, which must be submitted by March next year.

He has previously worked in television, broadcasting and the voluntary sector.

Mr Simpson's new role, which comes with a £40,000 salary, will involve creating a shared vision among different partners backing the project.

These include the city's two universities, Southern Arts as well as city and county councils.

Among the options open to consideration are extending the number of music venues and opening up more of Oxford's architectural heritage to the public.