The leader of the company delivering the current City of Culture in Derry, is travelling to Hull to tell the Humberside city that we here on Foyleside are “walking tall” as a result of hosting the 12-month cultural event. 
Hull city’s business leaders will hear tomorrow that winning the prestigious title – and the £11m investment that comes with it – will boost the city economically and improve its image internationally.
Hull is one of the final four candidate cities for 2017 has already brought benefits to Hull, including an increased media profile and the harnessing of city’s creative talent behind the bid.
Ms McCarthy will tell Hull’s civic and business leaders winning the title had proved invigorating.
She is due to speak about Derry’s experiences at a Hull and East Yorkshire Bondholders’ breakfast tomorrow at the newly opened Bridgehead Business Park in Hessle.
Ms McCarthy will tell those present that hosting the year-long programme of events, including Radio One’s Big Weekend, had boosted Derry pride.
Those present will be told: “Internally, people are now seriously walking tall. We are getting emails and messages from people who are saying they have never been so proud of their city. That is a step change in how people see their own place”.
She will also say economically, becoming City of Culture 2013, has boosted Derry’s coffers and local businesses.
It is estimated there has been a £5 return for every £1 spent on Derry’s 2013 culture programme.
She will also say there has been a dramatic increase in hotel occupancy rates and she expects the number of visitors to the city to double during the year.
Ms McCarthy will also tell those present that in June, Derry’s big showpiece event, a giant, passion play-style parade called The Return Of Colmcille, in which the city’s patron saint fought the Loch Ness Monster, attracted 170 journalists from around the world, generating positive headlines everywhere from Norwegian TV to the New York Times.
