THE LEADER of the former regional development agency and an acclaimed musician have been honoured for their contributions to the region.

The Northumbrian Association's annual Hotspur Awards were tonight (Wednesday November 7) given to Alan Clarke, the chief executive of the now-defunct One North East, and Kathryn Tickell, the renowned player of the Northumbrian small pipes and fiddle.

The ceremony was staged at Washington Old Hall in Washington, on Wearside.

Each of the award winners were presented with a silver replica of the Charlton Spur, at Hesleyside Hall, North Tynedale, which represents the bold endeavour needed for hunting.

Northumbrian Association secretary Jean Wardill said: “The awards are for brave endeavour - for people who have contributed something to the North-East, be in industry, being an entrepreneur or through their skills in the arts.

“Alan Clarke as chief executive of One North East was very active in promoting the region as a place for people to invest.

“And, thought it doesn’t exist now, as its leader during its duration, he was very inspirational and brought a lot of businesses to the region.”

She added: “Kathryn Tickell has just returned from a tour with her father, so she goes from one high to another.

“Her father is a singer as well. They are steeped in Northumbrian music. She has recorded dozens of albums and toured widely.”

Previous winners include Frank Atkinson, who contributed greatly to Beamish Museum, athlete Brendan Foster and Billy Elliot creator Lee Hall and the Durham Cricket Club.

Other winners were the late Sir Bobby Robson, Angel of the North creator Antony Gormley, Great North Run founder and former athlete Brendan Foster, Lee Hall, who wrote Billy Elliot, and Durham County Cricket Club.

The association's adult writers' award went to Philip Chambers, who hails from North Shields, while the young writers’ award was presented to Jade Nairn of North Tyneside.