It is excellent that a Government Minister has thrown his weight behind the idea of other Yorkshire cities backing Bradford's bid to be named as European Capital of Culture in 2008.

Dr Kim Howells, the Minister for Tourism, is right when he says that regional support is very important. It is certainly important to Bradford, which surely will stand a much better chance of winning the title with the help of places like Leeds, York, Sheffield and Hull and with the expertise of the Yorkshire Tourist Board behind it than it will by going it alone.

But it is important, too, to the region itself. If Bradford wins the title, it will be a great feather in the county's cap. As the head of the Capital of Culture bid, Paul Brookes, points out, success for Bradford will bring large numbers of visitors not only to this city but also to the region.

It will also change the perception of Yorkshire, helping it to be seen even more as a place where things happen. Investment will follow.

Dr Howells points out that Barcelona's success as a European Capital of Culture boosted the links with the region around it and regional tourism was strengthened as a result. There is no reason why that should not happen in Yorkshire as well.

This county's pride, once it is up and running and harnessed, can work wonders. With the support of other cities, this bid should go ahead with renewed confidence that the 2008 title will be secured primarily for Bradford but also for all of Yorkshire.