One of the leaders of Brighton and Hove's Capital of Culture campaign has defended his involvement with a rival city's bid.

Dave Reeves, who is on the executive board of the Brighton campaign, has accused his critics of sour grapes.

Other supporters of the city campaign have rallied to his defence.

Mr Reeves is director of Zap Productions, which is also organising an international festival as a central part of Bradford's bid.

Opponents have called for his resignation, accusing him of having a conflict of interest, a charge he and his supporters refute.

Mr Reeves co-founded the Zap Club 20 years ago with Neil Butler and Robin Morley.

His company, based in Middle Street, Brighton, has since become a specialist in outdoor productions.

The firm was given a contract last year to run the Bradford International Festival, alongside Zap's Glasgow-based sister company UZ.

The organisers promised to "create a festival which will be key in the European City of Culture bid".

Last week, Mr Butler, now director of Bradford International Festival Company Ltd, told Bradford Council he supported their bid.

However, Mr Reeves told The Argus: "It's no secret that we're based in Brighton and Bradford Council knew Brighton was making a Capital of Culture bid. I'm not holding any top secrets and there is no possible conflict."

Writer and broadcaster Simon Fanshawe, who is also on the Brighton board and who helped lead Brighton's bid for city status, said: "There is no way Dave is being an advocate for Bradford. He is whole-heartedly supporting the Brighton bid."

Brighton and Hove City Council leader Ken Bodfish said: "Dave is one of the most significant players in the city's cultural scene."

However, Tony Greenstein, a campaigner against the bid, said: "It doesn't surprise me that the people involved are showing such blatant opportunism. It's embarrassing for Dave Reeves that he has been found out."

Geoff Robinson, a member of the Reclaim Bradford Festival campaign, said: "I'm shocked by the news Dave Reeves thinks he can support both bids - this is a clear conflict of interest."

Brighton and Bradford are two of 12 contenders for European Capital of Culture 2008 status.

Final presentations will be made to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport on October 7, with a decision expected next year.