"Show you're backing Bradford" is the message behind a smart new badge promotion launched to boost the district's bid to be European Capital of Culture 2008.

Hundreds of enamel badges featuring Bradford's campaign logo - inspired by Bradford artist David Hockney's photographic montage, One Landscape, Many Views - are being given away to people who support the bid.

The scheme means that Bradford folk can show their pride in the district by wearing it on their clothes.

The free offer is being made in return for winning ideas on why Bradford would make a great Capital of Culture.

Ideas are being sought for events and projects that you think would highlight Bradford's rich cultural life. The best ones will form part of the bid that will be submitted to the Government on March 31.

The badges will be given to people who log on to Bradford's new Capital of Culture website and submit their ideas online. Entries should be no more than 50 words.

Campaign director Paul Brookes said the badge scheme was being launched exclusively for online ideas initially. In coming weeks the badges will go on sale, priced £1, at Tourist Information Centres across the district.

"We are having thousands of badges made so that people can show their support for this bid," said Mr Brookes.

"The badges will be distributed far and wide as the campaign gathers momentum and Bradford's online supporters will be the first in line.

"In the next few weeks we will be sending out these unique gifts to anyone sending in ideas and views to help Bradford's bid. They will also receive more information on the bid."

Bradford Council leader Councillor Margaret Eaton said: "These badges are a great way for people to show they are right behind the bid.

"We want people to wear their badges with pride and become ambassadors for Bradford."

As well as sending ideas online to www.bradford2008.com people can write to the Capital of Culture Campaign Team, c/o Merchant's House, Peckover Street, Bradford BD1 5BD.