Sam Fender Donates Mercury Prize Winnings to Music Venue Trust

Earlier this year Sam Fender took home the 2025 Mercury Prize for his critically acclaimed third album 'People Watching' beating records by the likes of Pulp, Wolf Alice, Fontaines D.C. and CMAT.

Today (November 11th 2025), it was announced that Fender has donated the £25,000 cash prize to the Music Venue Trust. A charity that represents hundreds of the UK's grassroots music venues. 

The funds will support the charity’s ongoing work to protect and secure the future of such live music spaces across the nation.

In a statement, Fender recognised the pivotal role that these venues had played in his early career and development. 

“I wouldn’t be doing what I am doing today if it wasn’t for all the gigs I played around the North East, and beyond, when I was starting out,” he said. “These venues are legendary, but they are struggling.”

Mark Davyd, CEO and founder of the MVT, added: “This is an incredible gesture by Sam, demonstrating once again that artists absolutely understand how vital grassroots music venues are to their careers and to their communities. 

“We are honoured to accept this donation and will ensure every penny of it makes a direct difference to the campaign to keep live music at the heart of our towns and cities." 

Fender’s recent UK and Ireland tour dates saw him donate £1 from each ticket sold to the Music Venue Trust. His run of arena shows in 2024 raised more than £100,000 for the charity’s Liveline Fund to support 38 grassroots venues across England, Scotland and Wales.

Speaking previously, the musician explained: “It’s brilliant to see that the money raised from the arena tour is making a real difference to so many venues. 

“The grassroots circuit has been decimated over the last 10 years or so, and the idea that money from shows in big venues supports the smaller venues, where it all starts for musicians like me, is just common sense.”