A Wagner-loving roadsweeper has been recruited to assist Bristol in its bid to become the European Capital of Culture in 2008.

Michael Tyack features on one of nine posters dotted around the city.

The campaign also shows pictures of a butcher, a teacher, a nurse, a stilt-walker, a BMX biker, a ferry skipper, a student and an allotment gardener.

A spokesman said the plan was to display the support of everyday local people for the city's bid to become capital of culture.

I think the campaign's a good idea - it features the people that are at the sharp end

Michael Tyack, roadsweeper

"I think Bristol is a great city.

"There's a lot to offer people within Bristol," said roadsweeper Michael Tyack.

"We've got theatre, we've got jazz, we've got music and we've got the balloon festival, there's parks, there's a lot going on in Bristol.

"I love classical music myself. My favourite is Wagner but I love the New World Symphony too.

"We get great music in the Colston Hall. We get the proms and we go to different concerts up in Clifton.

"I play tapes regularly when I am going round in my vehicle. I also listen to Muddy Waters and I love jazz very much too.

Shortlist due

"I think the campaign's a good idea. It features the people that are at the sharp end - we're all very proud of Bristol."

Twelve cities are vying for the title of European Capital of Culture - with a shortlist due in autumn this year.

The Guardian newspaper said of Bristol: "In the 60s while London swung, Bristol was stereotyped as a scrumpy-swilling backwater.

"No more. It's even become rather hip, largely due to the rise of Massive Attack, Roni Size and Tricky."