A BID has been launched to win €1m for Oxford and have it crowned the 'iCapital' of Europe.

The entry into the competition - the European Commission's European Capital of Innovation - is aimed at showing how technology is used in the city to improve people's lives.

Last year's winner was Barcelona, which made city data available to businesses, introduced 'smart' street lighting, electric vehicles and promoted research partnerships between the public and private sectors.

Oxford City Council is set to enter with support from the city's two universities, businesses and charities. 

City council leader Bob Price said: "We want to share Oxford’s energy and skills in a spirit of partnership with cities across Europe.

"We will share, learn, collaborate, create and re-invest the benefits to improve housing, transport, health services and communications.” 

Lynn Shepherd, executive chairman of Venturefest Oxford, an annual business event, said: “Innovation and entrepreneurship have always been part of Oxford’s rich heritage and Venturefest Oxford is proud of the part it plays in this vibrant ecosystem.

"I truly believe that Oxford is in a strong position to win this prize and I’m very pleased to be part of the bid team.”

The competition closes on November 18 and the winning city will be announced by an independent panel in March 2016.

The winner will be granted a prize of €950,000.