Birmingham has emerged as the front-runner in the race to be named European Capital of Culture 2008.
Brighton and Hove is bidding for the title, which officials hope would inject an extra £140 million into the city's economy.
According to a national survey today, one in six people (16 per cent) think Birmingham is best qualified to fly the cultural flag for Britain in 2008.
Cardiff comes a close second, on 15 per cent, with Newcastle and Gateshead's combined bid earning third place with 13 per cent.
The survey, conducted by independent polling company Taylor Nelson Sofres, comes ahead of the Government shortlist announcement.
The shortlist will be taken from the original 12 bidding cities.
Up to seven cities are expected to be on the shortlist, which is announced on Wednesday. The Prime Minister will name the winner next spring.
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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