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Regional daily journalist helps decide Brit Awards shortlist

Katy WheelerA regional daily journalist has helped decide the shortlist for some of the British music industry’s biggest awards.

Sunderland Echo entertainments editor Katy Wheeler, left, was involved in helping decide the nominations for the Brit Awards after a shake-up of selecting body the Brits Voting Academy by organiser BPI.

Katy was one of 700 people invited to join the academy as part of a shake up aimed at achieving greater gender balance as well as increased black and ethnic minority representation.

The academy is made up from all areas of music throughout the UK, ranging from artists and promoters to managers, producers and members of the press.

Said Katy: “It was a total, but pleasant, surprise to be asked to join The Brits Academy as it’s not something I’d applied for.

“It was great fun making my votes for the awards, which celebrate the cream of British music.”

Ged Doherty, BPI chairman, said: “I’m really proud that we’ve taken firm action to refresh the Academy to ensure that it keeps up with trends in music and society at large.

“I believe that as a result of these changes the BRITs will be better equipped to reflect the diverse nature of Britain and British music.”