evidence: Derry / Londonderry named UK City of Culture 2013 [...] Derry / Londonderry has been awarded the title because of the strong cultural programme put forward and the way it draws on the city’s past; the passion and commitment of the city and its supporters and the strong evidence of engagement across all parties and communities in the city; the potential step changes which they envisage; the highlighted economic and social benefits which being UK City of Culture could bring; and the considerable work which the city has already done in terms of planning and preparing for 2013. Derry / Londonderry has been awarded the title on the recommendation of the Independent Advisory Panel, Chaired by Prof Phil Redmond CBE. The four shortlisted cities submitted their full and final bids in May, and made final presentations to the Independent Advisory Panel on 16 and 17 June.