Musician with links to Wigan landmark on awards judging panel

Professional DJ, MC, poet, dancer, choreographer and radio presenter Ripton joins an impressive 15-strong panel for the prize-giving, which also includes the likes of New Order's Peter Hook and Graham Massey.

Ripton's research into his extraordinary family story has uncovered the links between Haigh Hall and slavery in the Caribbean.

The regional music awards hope to discover up-and-coming talent across the North West.

And Ripton, who has worked with an array of national and international talent and was the founder and CEO of a performance troupe for 13 years while in Jamaica, spoke of how important it is to help artists start climbing the ladder and get into the industry.

Ripton said: “The awards are paramount as they create an entrance for new, emerging and seasoned talents and it’s also a gateway for networking and future collaborations between the artists which creates longevity of the music and performing industry.”

He will be judging the awards alongside artists, radio presenters and prominent figures from the music business.

Originally planned as a live event, the North West Music Awards have been forced online by the ongoing restrictions in place due to Covid-19.

Organisers Red Spot Events say safety is paramount so the prizes will be handed out virtually, with the stream coming from iconic Manchester music venue Gorilla.

The 15 award categories range from promoters and venues to songwriters and performers and include Best Independent Record Label, Best North West Solo Artist, and The Ground Breaker Award.

Applications are open now at www.redspotevents.com/categories

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