The series, produced by Hat Trick Productions, follows the lives of drag queens in the North East and has been widely praised for its humour, heart, and representation of the LGBTQ+ community.
Writer and star Phil Dunning was also recognised on the night, winning Best Newcomer, cementing the show’s status as a standout in regional television.
The stars of TV show Smoggie Queens (Image: NORTH NEWS) The awards ceremony, held in Gateshead on Saturday, highlighted the growing strength of the North East’s television and film industry.
The event drew a host of industry professionals, with recognition given to both on-screen and behind-the-scenes talent.
Brenda Blethyn, star of Vera, was honoured with the Outstanding Contribution award alongside author Ann Cleeves, who created the beloved detective character.
Blethyn, who has played Vera Stanhope for 14 years, also won the Drama Performance award.
Elsewhere, Sunderland-based documentary series Sunderland ‘Til I Die, produced by Fulwell 73 for Netflix, won in the Broadcast Factual category, while The Red King (Quay Street Productions) was named Best Drama.
The factual entertainment award went to Joanna Page’s Wild Life, produced by Twenty Six 03, and the Sports category was won by Film Nova for their coverage of the Great North Run.
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The Centre Award was presented to Pride Media Centre in Gateshead for its role in supporting the region’s creative industries, particularly in fostering opportunities for LGBTQ+ talent.
RTS chief executive Theresa Wise praised the organisation’s commitment to inclusion and support for young creatives entering the industry.
The night also saw recognition for student talent, with winners from the University of Sunderland, Northumbria University, Teesside University, and Cumbria University taking home awards in categories ranging from animation to environmental filmmaking.
The RTS North East and the Border Awards continue to showcase the region’s growing influence in UK television and film, with industry leaders predicting further expansion in the coming years.
