A number of the biggest names in music descended on Leeds on Wednesday night, as the First Direct Arena played host to the 20th Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards.

The night included performances from Cee Lo Green, Rita Ora, FKA Twigs, Ella Eyre, and Stormzy, drawing in a 10,000 strong crowd.

Experts predict that the event will have drawn £1.35 million to the local economy, and will have significantly boosted Leeds’ bid for European Capital of Culture in 2023.

Krept and Konan bagged the Best Hip-Hop award, Ella Eyre won Best Female Act, while Stormzy won best Grime act. Further awards went to Skepta’s Shutdown for Best Song, and FKA Twigs won Best Video for Pendulum.

Cee Lo Green received the Outstanding Achievement Award, and Wiley and Lenny Henry were awarded with inaugural Paving the Way awards, which recognise trailblazers in the industry.

John Newman, soul singer-songwriter from North Yorkshire, said: “It’s important that these huge events go to places that thrive in music. “I studied here in Leeds and lived here for three years and it’s an incredible music scene.”

“It’s very important that these cities outside the capital are constantly pumped with influence so they can project even further.”

Other famous locals who were spotted on the red carpet include boxer Nicola Adams, Great British Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain and Leeds University graduate Corinne Bailey Rae.

(Image: Wikipedia)

Jessica Murray