Sting has made a significant donation to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead, aimed at launching a £10 million Endowment Fund to preserve free arts access in the North East.

The musician, who grew up in Wallsend, criticized the region's 'levelling up' strategies as 'empty promises' and highlighted the historical contributions of the North East that have been overlooked.

Expressing his desire to give back, Sting emphasized the importance of ensuring future generations on Tyneside have access to cultural opportunities.

The Endowment Fund will sustain free entry to exhibitions and community programs, which is crucial in a region where a third of children live in poverty.

The Baltic Centre recently celebrated its 10 millionth visitor, reinforcing its status as the most visited free cultural venue in the North East, engaging 183,000 children and young people annually.

Recent data reveals that one-third of children in the North East grow up in poverty, a situation Sting attributes to government neglect despite promises of improvement.

Sarah Munro, director of the Baltic Centre, called Sting's donation a 'major step' towards establishing the endowment, highlighting the gallery's role in inspiring young people.

In response to criticisms regarding regional neglect, a government spokesperson announced a £140 million investment in the North East's most deprived towns as part of a broader £1.5 billion initiative.

Sting, currently on a world tour, plans a gala performance at the Baltic in October to further support fundraising efforts, with tickets priced at £10,000 per table.

Reflecting on his childhood, Sting recalls the cultural influences of local libraries and theaters that shaped his artistic sensibilities.

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness praised the collaboration between Sting and the Baltic Centre, emphasizing the importance of cultural centers in fostering creativity among future generations.

The Baltic Centre, which opened in 2002, plays a crucial role in community engagement, offering programs for over 300,000 children and young people annually, despite facing financial challenges.