The city centre was packed over the weekend.

Crowds gathered for two Gorillaz gigs at the recently restored Bradford Live, sparking praise from Damon Albarn and giving a major boost to nightlife.

Damon Albarn, frontman of Gorillaz, took to the stage at the recently restored venue and publicly praised the auditorium and Bradford’s wider cultural scene.

Jonny Noble, chief executive of Bradford BID, said: "To have such a big international act in Bradford, and to see upwards of 5,000 people in the city centre for the events on Saturday evening really demonstrates the power of having a strong evening and night-time economy.

"Anecdotally, we've had reports of strong trading from pubs and restaurants, which I think we all hope continues as Bradford Live's reputation for quality gigs grows."

The two Gorillaz shows kicked off the band’s new tour.

Jonny attended the Friday night concert and said the city centre was "buzzing," with businesses feeling the impact.

Kevin Dean, director at The City Vaults and Ginger Goose bars, said: "We've had a very busy weekend thanks to the Gorillaz gigs at Bradford Live and other shows in town.

"To see the city centre so busy on a Friday and Saturday night is very encouraging.

"We had people who had never been to Bradford before praising the venue, saying what a great night out they've had, and promising to come back again."

The weekend was further boosted by full audiences at the nearby Alhambra Theatre and St George’s Hall.

Cllr Alex Ross-Shaw, executive member for planning, transport and regeneration at Bradford Council, said: "It's been fantastic to see such an enthusiastic response to these much-anticipated gigs at Bradford Live, not least from a true pop-culture legend.

"I'm delighted that Damon Albarn loves what we've done with our restoration of Bradford Live, and it looks like he had a cracking weekend in Bradford.

"We've always said that heritage and culture-led regeneration are going to provide a huge boost to Bradford's economy, and this weekend has shown that in action."

The success comes shortly after Bradford retained its Purple Flag status for a second consecutive year.

The national accolade recognises places that have a strong and well-managed night time and evening economy in place.

With major events now drawing visitors to the heart of Bradford, many hope the trend will continue.