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First Dates originally aired in 2013 and the popular format has been repeated in over 20 territories, with a spin off show, First Dates Hotel, created in 2017 taking the search for love to France and Italy.

Hundreds of couples have been matched up in the search for their soulmate, with the help of Maître d’ Fred Sirieix and his team.

The show has led to a host of engagements, marriages and even a baby.

The series production company, Twenty Twenty, has moved First Dates to Manchester as part of their commitment to UK regions.

In recent years, Channel 4’s new national HQ in Leeds and the BBC’s relocation of 2,300 posts to Salford have dominated our perception of out-of-London programme production.

This is perhaps not surprising: the corporation has the largest Ofcom quota for UK production outside the M25 – 50% – followed by Channel 4 and ITV, who both have 35%, and Channel 5, with 10%.

The launch party held at the Lowry in Salford was a roaring success.

After a short introductory speech by RTS North West chair Alex Connock, CBBC presenters Lindsey Russell and Lauren Layfield took to the stage to announce this year's shortlist.

It was also revealed that the Learning and Education category will from now on be held in memory of Katy Jones.

The shortlist for this year is:

1. Best Animation/ Puppetry