OXFORD has missed out on the chance to become UNESCO World Book Capital, it has been confirmed.
The city was bidding to win the title for 2014 but it has instead gone to Port Harcourt in Nigeria.
Oxford’s bid, one of eleven worldwide, was co-ordinated by Oxford Inspires and a steering committee made up of local organisations.
Oxford Inspires chairman Tony Stratton said: “Whilst we are disappointed our bid was unsuccessful, it has been a catalyst for raising awareness of national literacy challenges and for putting real commitment and energy behind working for change.
“Nothing of this work will be wasted.”
UNESCO said Port Harcourt was chosen because of “its focus on youth, and the impact it will have on improving Nigeria’s culture of books, reading, writing and publishing.”
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