THERE was a buzz in the air as Radio 1's Big Weekend blasted its way to the North-East last summer with massive names taking to the stage in Middlesbrough.
For just the second time in the region, the Big Weekend dazzled thousands of people as crowds gathered in Stewart Park to watch the likes of Miley Cyrus, Stormzy, Ellie Goulding and The 1975 play.
This year's Big Weekend was due to be held in Camperdown Park, Dundee but was cancelled in March due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.
But further details have emerged as the BBC has spilled the beans on what is going to happen this year instead.
The tent going up in Middlesbrough last year Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT
The BBC has said its alternative show - Big Weekend UK 2020 - will be held across five virtual "stages" almost one year after coming to Middlesbrough.
Set to take place between May 22 and May 24, a number of artists will beam their performances live from their homes with archive sets from previous editions of the event.
Already, Sam Smith, Biffy Clyro, Anne-Marie, Young T & Bugsey and Rita Ora are the first names to have been announced - with more to be named in coming weeks.
Meanwhile Miley Cyrus' closing peformance at Stewart Park last year is expected to be replayed during the Big Weekend UK 2020.
Miley Cyrus in Middlesbrough last year
Radio 1's Greg James said: "It'll be a great opportunity to re-live some of our favourite performances from over the years.
"Although it'll be a technical nightmare, having some new performances from artists' houses will be great for everyone to have something fun to watch and listen to over the Bank Holiday Weekend.
"And if it all goes wrong, we can just blame the pandemic and say that at least we tried."
Speaking to The Northern Echo, the Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said he was "delighted" that people across the UK would be able to relive last year's concert.
He said: “I’m delighted that Miley Cyrus is “coming back” to the Boro with the BBC showing highlights from last year’s Radio 1 Big Weekend.
"Yes, we find ourselves in an unprecedented situation, but we will get through it together and it’s important to remember good times like the Big Weekend.
"And we have even more good times ahead of us as well with The Killers, one of the biggest rock bands in the world, playing the Riverside next year.
"The Big Weekend was a massive coup for the region, with thousands turning out to Stewart Park for a fantastic festival.
"Teesside Airport welcomed global stars and there was a huge buzz right across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool.
"It proved that we are punching above our weight in securing some of the world’s best artists and showcased our region on a national scale.
“Now people up and down the country will have the opportunity to relive those memories over the late May Bank Holiday weekend and see, once again, why we’re a fantastic place to live and visit.”
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