The Derby Conservative group have pledged their full support for Derby City Council to submit the Cities application to be a host City if England is chosen to host the World Cup in 2018.

At a meeting of the full council last night, a motion was passed unanimously by all Derby City Councillors.

Derby is one of 16 cities competing for the right to stage matches if England is chosen to host the tournament. The Football Association will choose 12 suitable venues next month.

It is understood that the City would host around 4-5 matches, with the possibility of a quarter final. A month long 'carnival' of football and entertainment events would also be staged across the City during the month-long tournament.

Councillor Matthew Holmes, deputy Derby Conservative leader, said: "This is an opportunity to tell the FA that we believe Derby will embrace the World Cup and to tell them we want to help strengthen their bid.

The FA does not need to look elsewhere in the East Midlands, Derby is ready to be chosen as a host City. We are at the heart of England with superb transport links and the perfectly sited Pride Park Stadium that will, with investment, meet the required seating capacity.

Derby will strengthen the FA's bid to host the World Cup in England and the long-term benefits for local people and local businesses will be more than outweigh the initial investment we will be making."

You can pledge your suport for Derby's bid by visiting, www.derby2018bid.com