Homegrown hero brings cash boost

SAM Fender's trio of “unforgettable” homecoming concerts at St James’ Park gave the North East economy a £16.5 million cash injection, according to new figures.

- DANIEL HOLLAND Local Democracy Reporter

Around 150,000 fans flocked to see the North Shields singer-song-writer play three sold-out gigs at the home of Newcastle United earlier this month.

New analysis has now shown that the People Watching tour's arrival on Tyneside helped provide a multi-million pound boost to local bars, restaurants, hotels, and other businesses. Newcastle City Council, investment agency NewcastleGateshead Initiative (NGI), and business improvement district company NE1 Ltd estimated the economic impact at £16.5 million.

Coun Abdul Samad, the council's cabinet member for culture, music and arts, said: “Sam Fender, St James’ Park and a sea of black and white made for an unforgettable weekend showing Newcastle at its brilliant best. It was fantastic to see such an incredible atmosphere across the city as partners once again came together to show nowhere knows how to put on a show quite like Newcastle.