Northumberland County Council has thrown its support behind a bid to bring the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 to the north-east. 
 

It has been announced today (August 12) that Newcastle City Council has made the short list along with six other cities to host the annual music competition. 
 

Glen Sanderson, Leader of Northumberland County Council said: 

“The announcement that Newcastle has made the shortlist is really exciting news. The city is perfectly placed to host an event of this scale and profile with world class facilities and a wealth of experience in laying on many major events.  
 

“Should the city be successful in its bid to bring the concert to the north-east – the economic benefits in terms of the visitor economy and the international media coverage that comes as part of hosting it will be felt across the region, including Northumberland. It would be a huge showcase for our beautiful county, and it would be great to welcome so many international visitors.
I’m very glad that the city has been so positive and proactive to bid, and we support them completely.” Councillor Sanderson added. 
 

It was confirmed last month the annual European song competition will not be held in the 2022 winning country Ukraine, due to the ongoing war following the Russian invasion. 
 

The UK was given the chance to host Eurovision for the ninth time – more than any other country – after Sam Ryder came second in the competition. 
 

The seven shortlisted cities will now go through to the final stage of the bidding process. Birmingham, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle and Sheffield will now put together detailed bids and the winner will be announced in the autumn. 
 

The Eurovision Song Contest is the biggest live TV and online event in the world, watched by 161 million people.   

County councillor Wendy Pattison said: "I support the Newcastle bid as our region has so much to offer, including historical locations beautiful beaches, leisure activities, and wonderful people. The benefits to businesses and therefore, employment opportunities are significant." 
 

Councillor Gordon Stewart added: "I sincerely hope the Newcastle bid is successful, as this would have major short and long-term benefits to our communities. 

"Visitors will sample the many regional attractions and hopefully, return and tell their friends how wonderful our county is to live work, visit, learn or invest in. 

"I would encourage everyone to get involved if the bid is successful, including all our businesses." 
 

A motion is going to for the next full council meeting to seek full Northumberland County Council support for Newcastle’s bid for the competition.