THE region's annual answer to the Turner Prize has been cancelled after a major sponsor pulled out.

The Comme Ca Art Prize was due to take place this month and a shortlist of artists had already been chosen.

But, despite the set back, the organisers hope that it will be back next year.

In an interview with City Life magazine, Comme Ca director Claire Turner explained what had happened.

'The private sponsor pulled out on us' right at the end. It put us in the position where we didn't have enough money to go ahead with the prize. So it had to be cancelled for the time being. It's really sad.

'The artists are all really disappointed. What we've said is that if we can find another sponsor it will be done to fit around their timetable - whether it's the end of this year or the beginning of next year.'

Disappointing

'It's mainly disappointing because of all the work the artists have put into it. But also myself, the other sponsors, the NWDA, the PR company, the Arts Council North West. But there was no way I was going to do something at the risk of Comme Ca going bust just to make sure we could do this fantastic exhibition.

'We've spoken to a lot of people -everyone from our contacts at the NWDA, Arts Council NW, and the private sector' in the North West and in London, to find out if there are any private companies that would be interested in sponsoring the prize. So it's still very much a case of if we get somebody then it will go ahead. And with the same shortlist.

'It's something we want to do annually' as soon as we find somebody else it will be back on track.'

Last year's inaugural prize was won by Liverpool artist Paul Rooney for his video work entitled: 'Flat 23'. He was picked from more than 300 entries and was presented with his '10,000 cheque by the prize's patron and former Turner Prize winner Chris Ofili.

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