A FLAGSHIP music centre has been turned down for a £3m Lottery grant which would have helped them develop musical talent across the region.

Northern Recording, a studio based at Consett, wanted the money from lottery agents the Arts Council to build a new digital recording studio which would have attracted established artists and a new generation of talent.

But the Arts Council said the bid was not as able as other schemes to increase access to the arts or support projects in areas where arts facilities are low.

A leading member of the Northern Recording said the decision was a 'major disappointment.' He said: "Once again people in County Durham have missed out.

"We thought that with recent changes to Lottery guidelines, giving priority to former coalfield area and an emphasis on social and geographic spread, we have a very strong case.

"However, it appears to be business as usual with Newcastle and Gateshead receiving all the available money at the expense of places like Consett."