AN international music promoter is returning to his native North-East to search for local talent and promote it overseas.

Phil Patterson, music industry export promoter for UK Trade and Investment, arrives in the region today.

Originally from Newcastle, Mr Patterson is returning to his home city to talk to local independent labels about the potential for marketing their artists overseas.

He will use the Generator North-East offices in Newcastle as a base during his visit.

Working alongside Jeff Sanders, an international trade advisor from Business Link Tyne and Wear, and One NorthEast, he aims to take a group of representatives from labels across the region to the Popcom music trade fair in Berlin, in September.