CATERING for the world's media could be one of the most important parts of Derby's campaign to host the World Cup, according to the city's bid team.

Marketing Derby director John Forkin said the city would be welcoming a "media circus" to the city and county if they won the right to stage matches of the worldwide tournament in 2018 or 2022.

He said giving television crews, radio teams and journalists the best impressions of Derby would be vital as the millions watching the competition across the world would be seeing the city through their eyes.

He said: "If the World Cup comes to Derby, it will be like the sun shining permanently on the city for two weeks – we would be completely in the spotlight.

"Derby is a great, friendly city and if we can show this off to the rest of the world, we will continue to raise its profile to heights it deserves."

Derby is now one of 16 cities competing for the right to stage World Cup matches, following a late entry from Plymouth to host the tournament.

Derby Telegraph readers can still show their support by visiting www.thisisderbyshire.co. uk/bid and www.therams.co. uk

You can also pledge your support on www.derby2018bid.com and www.england2018bid.com.