James Arthur's talent hunt ahead of homecoming gig

James Arthur is looking for a local support act to join him on stage at a homecoming gig.

The world-famous musician will perform at Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium on 8 June.

The night before, he will be at Teesside University's Students' Union, watching as four acts compete to win an opening slot at his show.

The songwriter's family chose the finalists - Finn Forster, Lizzie Esau, Noyou and Spilt Milk - out of more than 100 bands and artists across the North East who entered the Road to the Riverside competition.

On 7 June, the finalists will perform at the union before Arthur and BBC Introducing's Shakk announce the winner.

Arthur's sister, Sian, told BBC Tees the competition was "super important" to her brother.

"He wants to give young bands and singers the chance to support him, to give back to the local community," she said.

"He grew up in local bands and it's a full circle moment for him, playing in his home town in his football team's stadium.

"James used to be walking through those turnstiles as a season ticket holder and he can't believe the next time he walks through them it'll be for his own gig."

Oscar Nolan, who is a member of Gateshead-based Spilt Milk alongside his triplet brothers, said warming up the crowd for Arthur would be a "dream come true".

"As kids, whilst staying with our grandparents, we would regularly busk in Middlesbrough town centre and James’ hometown of Redcar, and we always received great support from people on Teesside," he added.

Sunderland synth-pop act Noyou are similarly excited, with a statement from the band describing members as "incredibly proud" and grateful for the opportunity to compete.

Indie-alternative act Lizzie Esau, from Ryton, Gateshead, is also "over the moon" at the prospect of playing what could be the biggest gig of her career so far.

The BBC has contacted Finn Forster for his thoughts.

The Road to the Riverside competition has been organised by promoters Make A Scene.

Director Andrew Knights said: "James Arthur really wanted to reconnect with the local scene and help a local artist along the same road he's been down.

"It's incredible to think you could walk out into your home stadium, and you never know who'll be watching.

"It doesn't matter if it's a music executive or someone who's found their new favourite band, it all matters."

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