The quartet, who won in 2018 for second album Visions of a Life, have claimed their fourth nomination for The Clearing, an album rooted in the sounds of 1970s soft rock. Other nominees for the 2025 music prize include Pulp - also former winners - who are recognised for More, their first album in 24 years.

At the age of 84, folk musician Martin Carthy becomes the oldest ever Mercury nominee - while viral pop star PinkPantheress's adrenalin-inducing 20-minute mixtape Fancy That is thought to be the shortest ever nominated album. Speaking to BBC News, Carthy said it was a "fabulous privilege" to be nominated 60 years after releasing his debut album. "I'm enjoying every second of it," he added. The award, which recognises the best British or Irish album of the past 12 months, will be presented at a ceremony on 16 October.

For the first time, the event will be held in Newcastle - as organisers address accusations that the prize had become too London-centric. Last year's winners, Leeds-based rock band English Teacher, were the first act from outside the capital to lift the trophy in 10 years. By contrast, this year's shortlist includes just one London act - Wolf Alice. Sam Fender will be a home town favourite at this year's ceremony after being nominated for the potent rock of his third album, People Watching.

Jazz musician Joe Webb comes from Wales, and incorporates his country's musical heritage (along with a love of Britpop) into his nominated album, Hamstrings and Hurricanes. Scotland's Jacob Alon, meanwhile, is recognised for the heartbreaking gossamer ballads of their debut album, In Limerence.

"It's a big moment for the queers," they said of their nomination. "I feel like I'm finding my people more and more every day." The shortlist also features Irish rock band Fontaines DC for the menacingly beautiful Romance, and Irish iconoclast CMAT for her witty and vulnerable Euro-Country. (BBC/ Getty Images)