Nominations are now open for the North East Culture Awards, the once-a-year chance to reward those creative people who enhance North East life with words, music, colour and spectacle.
For the second year running, the awards ceremony – with entertainment and razzmatazz – will take place on Thursday September 8, amid the grand and inspiring surroundings of Durham Cathedral.
And once again the headline sponsor is Durham County Council whose spirited bid to land UK City of Culture 2025 (the first county contender) reached the shortlist.
Bradford won, as everyone now knows, but while all associated with the County Durham bid were magnanimous in defeat, they were also determined to press ahead with ambitious plans.
County Council leader Amanda Hopgood said: “We know the transformational impact a vibrant cultural offer has on residents.
“Not only does it bring people together and energise our communities, but it raises aspirations and attracts people and investment into our towns and villages.
“Working alongside our partners and communities, we will channel the excitement,…
