"There is a united Team Derry approach both from the Culture Company and Derry City Council, " she said.

BBC: Divided opinions as Derry prepares for City of Culture 2013

The airport is owned and operated by Derry City Council and, as a result, the staff are on strike.

BBC: Strikes hit services countrywide

Another large parade took place in Londonderry with many people turning out to see the procession leaving Derry City Council car park.

BBC: St Patrick's Day: Thousands at parades in NI

Derry City Council's Jacqueline Whoriskey, said it will be exciting.

BBC: Londonderry City of Culture fireworks display for New Year

Derry City Council is asking people to come to Queen's Quay on New Year's Eve to welcome in 2013, the official start of the city's year as UK City of Culture.

BBC: Londonderry City of Culture fireworks display for New Year

In terms of the city council's aspirations it's to put Derry and the city generally in a different place and give it a different character, I think it's very successful in those terms.

BBC: Clipper Yacht Race hailed a success as 200,000 visit city

The Derry branch of Comhaltas has appealed against the decision of the organisation's Ulster Council not to put the city forward as host for the 2013 Fleadh.

BBC: Appeal by Derry Comhaltas over Fleadh decision

Derry, which will be UK City of Culture 2013, was a late confirmation on the shortlist after the Ulster Council of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann reversed its previous decision not to support the bid.

BBC: All-Ireland Fleadh win 'will boost Londonderry economy'