THOUSANDS of people visited Tyneside’s most prestigious arts centre to take a look at the weird and wonderful pieces on display for the Turner Prize.

Record numbers attended the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead in one day, testament to the pulling power of the opening of one of the biggest events in the arts calendar.

In the past, controversy has raged over the competition, with exhibits such as Tracey Emin’s unmade bed and Martin Creed’s room with flashing lights generating fierce debate.

And, in only the second staging outside London in its 27-year history, the Turner Prize did not disappoint with its controversial displays.

Although the exhibits were not to everyone’s liking, no one could deny what a coup it is for the North East to stage such a prestigious event with people from all over Britain and beyond coming to see the unique displays.

Mother-of-one Sam Kemp, 35, of Low Fell, Gateshead, said: “The Turner Prize displays are what I expected them to be like and it’s fantastic to have such a competition staged here in Gateshead as it really boosts the reputation of the area.

“It is helping to put the region on the map and is encouraging more and more people to visit the North East and see what great things we have to offer.”

Grandfather-of-eight Paul Cavanagh, 59, of Thornaby, said: “I never thought I’d like the artwork but I’ve actually been impressed by it.

“It is good to see so many people at the Baltic and there is no doubt that is a great coup for the North East to have such an event like this.”

This year’s four shortlisted artists are Halifax-born Hilary Lloyd, who graduated from Newcastle Polytechnic in 1987, Scots Karla Black and Martin Boyce, and George Shaw who lives in Devon.