Wakefield Council confirmed this week it is interested in putting the city forward for the title, which would see it host numerous high profile events.

MP Mary Creagh has thrown her weight behing the idea and said: "Wakefield is the leading city for arts in the country. The Hepworth will be outstanding when it opens in 2011 and there will be nothing like anywhere in the country. It would perfect to host the Turner Prize and bring a major boost to the economy."

But as the winning city would also host major events such as the Brits, there has been talk of a joint bid between Leeds, Wakefield and Bradford.

Ms Creagh added: "Wakefield should stand on it's own two feet. We have nothing to apologise for. Why shouldn't we host The Brits? The council really should go for it. The city has turned itself around since the economic blow the 1980s, it has grown in confidence and we have built pride in the city. We need to celebrate our arts culture and this is the way to do it."

Liverpool became the European city of culture last year – but Wakefield would be bidding to become the first ever UK city of Culture.

Wakefield Council leader Coun Peter Box said: "We are interested in finding out more about becoming a city of culture and have expressed an interest but at this early stage we cannot confirm whether we will be submitting a bid.

"We are exploring the options and finding out as much as we can, including whether we could submit a joint bid, before we make any final decisions.

"We are very proud of Wakefield's rich cultural heritage and strong and vibrant cultural sector. It is home to outstanding attractions, such as the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, and we are on the cusp of a significant cultural renaissance in terms of regeneration with the world-class art gallery, The Hepworth Wakefield.

"We have a strong cultural vision for the district which will provide a lasting legacy and improvements and have already started to develop some innovative large-scale programmes of activity perfect for community participation."

Deputy leader and cabinet member with responsibility for culture and regeneration Coun Denise Jeffery said: "The Hepworth Wakefield will bring more than 200,000 visitors a year to the city and will play a major part in any bid we make to become a city of culture.

"Our major cultural offer will help put Wakefield on the national and international map contributing significantly to the region's economy and great quality of life."

All bids must be submitted by October 16.