I'm excited that it's in Manchester

RITA Ora says she is delighted to be back in Manchester as she takes on hosting duties for a third year running at the European Music Awards The popstar, actress and TV presenter, who has also been voicing the Metrolink system to help direct people across the city says despite now being a seasoned pro when it comes to the EMAS, takes her hosting role seriously.

- ADAM MAIDMENT AND JENNA CAMPBELL

She has been working diligently behind the scenes for months as she prepares for the show.

"It's a huge compliment to be asked to come back," Rita tells the Manchester Evening News.

"The fact that MTV has trusted me with this huge live TV awards show, especially in Europe where my main fanbase is, is something that I always take personally.

"I want to make sure the outfits are great, the links are great, there's a personal connection and a narrative there, I just want it all to feel fun and natural. I do put a lot of myself into it." Rita, who headlined Manchester Pride earlier this year, says there is a lot to get excited about at this year's event, from the performances, the celebrity appearances and the general atmosphere of the show.

"I love them all," the 33-year-old says of this year's performance line-up. "Teddy Swims is one of the best vocalists right now, I just love listening to his voice. RAYE has had such an awesome journey, and Taylor [Swift], if she does come, would be amazing too.