Grantee portal 
Ollie Regan, a talented young songwriter from the North East, has been recognised with the Alan Hull Award, celebrating emerging musical talent from the region.
The award, delivered by Community Foundation North East, supports the next generation of songwriters and composers by providing funding to help develop their work. This year’s recipient, 16-year-old Ollie Regan, has been awarded £1,000 to record his first solo EP.
The Alan Hull Award was established in memory of Newcastle-born songwriter and founding member of Lindisfarne, Alan Hull, who died in 1995. The award honours his legacy by nurturing new voices and encouraging creative talent to flourish across the North East’s music scene.
By supporting young artists at an early stage in their careers, the award helps strengthen the region’s vibrant cultural landscape and continues the North East’s proud tradition of influential songwriting.
Jo Cundall, Senior Programme Advisor at Community Foundation North East, said:
“The Alan Hull Award shines a spotlight on the exceptional musical talent emerging from the North East and celebrates the next generation of songwriters shaping our region’s creative future.
The judging panel were impressed by Ollie’s songwriting ability, creativity and potential, recognising a distinctive voice that reflects the spirit of Alan Hull’s legacy. This support will help him take the next step in his musical journey and we look forward to seeing how his work develops.”
Ollie Regan added:
“As a young songwriter based in the North East, receiving this award is such an honour and has made me feel recognised and appreciated. I am entirely grateful to receive the Alan Hull grant this year and thankful towards the judges for having faith in my ideas, allowing me to bring my songs to life, which I hope will contribute to the flourishing local music scene.”
Through initiatives such as the Alan Hull Award, Community Foundation North East continues to invest in culture and creativity and support individuals whose talent and ambition will shape the future of the region’s cultural life.