Belfast announced as host city for MTV Europe awards

Lady Gaga won three awards at last year's MTV EMAs in Madrid, Spain

Belfast's Odyssey Arena is hosting this year's MTV Europe Music Awards in early November, although an exact date hasn't been announced.

It's the first time Northern Ireland has been chosen to broadcast the event.

Set up in 1994, last year's ceremony was held in Madrid with previous shows in Liverpool (2008), Edinburgh (2003) and London (1996).

Lady Gaga was the big winner in 2010 with three awards for best pop, best female and best song.

MTV has also announced plans to host a series of local events around Belfast in the lead up to the EMAs.

The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Pat Convery, said: "It is fitting that the EMAs are coming to Belfast, one of Europe's most exciting and vibrant cities and with around 35% of our population below the age of 25.

"Belfast has a rich musical history and has produced artists such as Snow Patrol and the legendary Van Morrison and we now have an unprecedented opportunity to shine a spotlight on our musical heritage while also providing a major boost to our economy.

"I am delighted that MTV has chosen Belfast.

"The decision to host such a world class event in our city is an endorsement of what we have been saying for some time now. Belfast is a happening place."