North East Brit success for Sam Fender and Jade
It was a victorious night for North East musicians Sam Fender and Jade Thirlwall at the 2025 Brit Awards.
Fender, who picked up best alternative/rock act, praised "all those at home in Shields" and added he was "no where near as drunk as last time".
It marked the end of a huge week for Fender, who also topped the UK album charts with People Watching.
Meanwhile South Shields' born Jade performed her song Angel Of My Dreams and picked up best pop act.
The Brit Awards ceremony in London celebrated the best in British music and beyond over the past 12 months.
Jade, formerly of Little Mix, said she spent two and a half years writing after the band announced a hiatus in 2022.
The 32-year-old told the BBC she was "very grateful" to have received two nominations, including song of the year.
She said Angel of My Dreams was an honest assessment of her "toxic relationship with the music industry" and aims to show how "fame has come at a price".
She spoke of her love for her "Little Mix sisters" as she collected the best pop act award.
"Firstly, I need to thank the fans because that's why I won this award," she said.
She went on to thank her family and friends for "making me feel like it was a realistic goal to be a pop star ever since I was a little girl".
"And finally, my Little Mix sisters. I love you so much. I wouldn't have this award without you and you changed my life."
Accepting the best rock and alternative act prize, Fender admitted he was a "little bit nervous" as he took a few attempts to say a "huge thanks" to his fans.
He then thanked his band, adding he would just be a "mad man shouting at walls" without them.
Additional reporting by PA Media
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