Newcastle to host Mercury Prize ceremony

The Mercury Prize shortlist and winner is decided by a panel of industry experts.

Unlike the Brit Awards, which recognise commercial success, the Mercury Prize seeks to reward artistic achievement.

Primal Scream were the first winners, in 1992, with the accolade going to Leeds band English Teacher last year. PJ Harvey, in 2001 and 2011, remains the only multiple winner.

Welcoming the award to Newcastle, the council said it was "another string to the bow" for the city, while North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said it would give the "opportunity to showcase our home-grown talent".

Leader of Newcastle City Council Karen Kilgour said the success of the MOBO Awards showed "what Newcastle was capable of".

"The fact that Newcastle has been chosen as the first location for the prestigious Mercury Prize to ever be held outside of London speaks volumes of the growing strength of the music industry in the city and wider city region.

"The Mercury Prize needed no further evidence that Newcastle was the place to hold this prestigious industry event."

Music agency Generator said it would be coordinating a "dynamic, week-long regional fringe programme in the lead up to the awards, celebrating the depth and diversity of northern talent".

Mayor Kim McGuinness said: "The success of artists like Sam Fender shows what is possible for young musicians in our region.

"Our cultural offer is strong and steeped in the pride and creativity of our people, places and industrial heritage.

"This event is testament to that and will help our region stand tall on the national and international stage."