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Doncaster’s bid to become a city next year has received a high flying boost as the region’s airport bosses have backed the bid.

Airport Director, Steve Gill, said: “After only a few months in charge at Doncaster Sheffield Airport it is clear to see that this is a place with ambition and an area filled with possibility.

“We are backing the town’s bid to be given city status as part of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012. It would be fantastic to see Doncaster City on the destination screens at the airports we serve across Europe.

The bid has been backed by actor Brian Blessed, Labour leader and Doncaster North MP Ed Miliband and the Mayor of Doncaster, Peters Davies.

Doncaster is competing against other towns, including Middlesbrough, Blackpool and Croydon, for the city status next year.

In the past 10 years Doncaster has seen many changes, including a new mayor, a refurbished race course and new sporting ground, the Keepmoat Stadium.

Mr Gill added: "The town has rich history and a real buzz about it. It is a difficult time for businesses at the moment but there is a clear passion and drive for people to work together to get beyond this economic period.

“There is a vibrancy about Doncaster that I’ve been impressed with and we have a strengthened and continually improving tourism offer working in partnership with businesses including the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, the Keepmoat Stadium, Doncaster Culture and Leisure Trust, Doncaster Racecourse and the Doncaster Rovers.”

Doncaster submitted its bid at the end of May and the announcement is due in early 2012.