St Stephen’s, Hull’s leading shopping and leisure destination, has achieved more national recognition for the city having won a major award in London last week.

The shopping centre picked up a Purple Apple ‘events’ award in recognition of its successful series of Music Legends events that celebrated the appearance of the likes of The Beatles and Buddy Holly at the old ABC theatre, which stood on the site now occupied by St Stephen’s.

The St Stephen’s team received the award, presented by TV presenter, Claudia Winkleman, at a glittering dinner and awards ceremony in London on 8th May, which was attended by 450 of the crème de la crème in the UK's retail marketing world.

The BCSC Purple Apple Marketing Awards are the only awards that recognise and reward effective shopping centre marketing within the UK shopping centre sector. Other winners on the night included major names in the shopping centre world such as Trinity Leeds, Westfield in London and Bluewater in Kent.

Jim Harris, Centre Manager for St Stephen’s said: “Following on from Hull’s City of Culture status, this award is another cause for celebration. St Stephen’s is increasingly becoming known not only for our contribution and commitment to Hull’s business and wider community, but also for our creativity and fun. This award is well deserved recognition for the team’s efforts and once again brings the spotlight onto our great city.”

Music Legends at St Stephen’s was a series of events that recreated the hysteria of when The Beatles and Buddy Holly came to Hull 50 years ago. The events had a huge impact increasing footfall by 52% in one weekend and widening the demographic of shoppers – meeting its aim to increase older visitors by 5% year-on-year.

Further information can be found on the Purple Apple Awards website

St Stephen's website: www.ststephens-hull.com/