Breakout Newcastle band Leazes have been crowned champions of this year’s Road to Hardwick competition – earning themselves a prime-time main stage slot at Hardwick Festival 2025, where they’ll join the likes of Pet Shop Boys (Dreamworld – The Greatest Hits Live), Scissor Sisters, and Olly Murs this August.
The win marks a major moment in the band’s rise, following a packed-out final at Newcastle’s Newgate Social, where Leazes battled it out against five other emerging acts from across the North East on the evening and 21 across the course of the tournament. After a fierce run of heats and semi-finals, judged by some of the most respected names in the music business, it was Leazes’ sharp songwriting, undeniable stage presence, and dedicated fanbase that set them apart.
Meanwhile Berry Hagman was the winner of the separate Road to Hardwick Acoustic competition. He will be performing on Friday 15th August on Treehouse Arena Sage at the festival.
In a joint statement, Leazes said: “We said it before the very first heat – this would mean everything to us if we won. And it does. Everything. It still doesn’t feel real. To go from dreaming about this to knowing we’re going to be on the same bill as some of our actual heroes… it’s just mad. This is what dreams are made of.
We’ve got so much love for the team behind Road to Hardwick. The way they’ve looked after us and created such a proper opportunity is second to none. And to everyone who came out to support us – from the first gig to the final – this is yours as much as ours. We’re buzzing to take that energy to Hardwick’s main stage. Let’s have it.”
With a growing national profile, airplay from BBC Introducing, Amazing Radio UK & USA, and a string of sold-out headline shows, Leazes are already one of the North East’s most talked-about new acts. Their most recent singles Little Miss Media and Tuesday have helped solidify a sound that’s equal parts anthemic and authentic – a snapshot of modern life through a twenty-something’s eyes.
But it’s not just the main stage slot that’s up for grabs. As winners, Leazes will also receive a tailored artist development package, including industry mentorship, press and PR support, release strategy guidance, and a series of surprise perks from music industry sponsors – all designed to help turn their festival moment into long-term momentum.
John Adamson, founder and organiser of Hardwick Festival, said: “This is why we launched Road to Hardwick – to uncover the next generation of headliners and give them a real shot. Leazes are exactly the kind of band that deserve this kind of platform. They’ve got the songs, the connection with their audience, and the ambition to match. I can’t wait to see what they do with that main stage slot – they’ll absolutely blow people away.”
This year’s competition saw 21 bands battle across four live heats, a semi-final, and a grand final – all hosted at Newgate Social, in partnership with The WonderBar for acoustic heats. The judging panel brought together heavyweight expertise, including Johny Bond (ex-Catfish and the Bottlemen), Paul James (manager of Liam Fender), Maria and Sam from Marisam Events, Leigh Macfarlane of Songbird Management, David Haley from Generator, and Ritch from HMV Newcastle, the celebrated music podcast The Support Act and members from the Hardwick Festival team – each offering decades of industry insight.
Cheryl Flowers, manager at Newgate Social, added: “Leazes had something special from the very start – you could feel it. They bring incredible energy to the stage and truly connect with the audience. It was a joy to watch the crowd dancing and singing along to their songs. Seeing their journey throughout the competition has been nothing short of inspiring, and this win is so well deserved. I’ve been blown away by the standard of all the bands this year – each act brought something unique and exceptional. Congratulations once again to Leazes, and well done to everyone who took part!”
Following the success of last year’s winners Swindled and Camel Island, who return this year for special guest sets, Road to Hardwick has cemented itself as the North East’s most exciting live music pipeline – offering a real pathway from local buzz to national stages.
And what a stage it is. Hardwick Festival 2025 returns to the stunning grounds of Hardwick Hall this August with its biggest and boldest line-up yet. Alongside its three chart-topping headliners, the festival will feature over 50 artists across multiple stages, including dance tents, acoustic sets, family entertainment, plus gourmet street food and bars.
TICKETS ON SALE NOW
Weekend and day passes available at:
www.hardwickfestival.co.uk
Festival Dates: 15, 16, 17, August 2025
Location: Hardwick Hall, County Durham