Member Article

Recognition for Yorkshire as BBC Sports Personality of the Year brought to Leeds Arena

The BBC Sports Personality of the Year has been brought to Leeds First Direct Arena for the first time, turning the spotlight on the investment that has gone into the regeneration of the city.

With 12,000 expected attendees, it will be the largest event held at the arena since its opening in July.

Previously held at the ExCel in London in 2012, the move up north has been welcomed as recognition of Leeds as a cultural and economic centre.

Shortlisted finalists include: athletes Mo Farah, Christine Ohuruogu and Hannah Cockroft, tennis star Andy Murray, cyclist Chris Froome. Also making the list are; Golfer Justin Rose, sailor Sir Ben Ainslie, jockey AP McCoy, cricketer Ian Bell and rugby union player Leigh Halfpenny

Leeds has been declared the number one city outside London for foreign inward investment, which Bdaily reported here.

Tony Watson, Director of Sales & Marketing at First Direct Arena said: “We’re thrilled to be hosting the 60th Anniversary of BBC Sports Personality of the Year and bringing the biggest awards event in the sporting calendar to Leeds.

“It’s the largest event we’ve held here since opening with Bruce in July and is the most spectacular stage we are ever likely to see.

“Yorkshire is one of the country’s top sporting regions so it’s great to be recognising our sporting greats here in Leeds. Our vibrant city has undergone considerable regeneration and it’s great to put the newly developed Arena Quarter in the spotlight.

“The event will have a considerable impact on Leeds’ local economy – we already have a crew of over 400 working on site all of whom will be sleeping, eating and travelling in the city and have a full house on the night itself.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clare Burnett .