The story of summer this year has been all about cancellations - but work has been going on behind the scenes for a big tournament coming to Newcastle next year.
With less than 500 days to go, planning for the Rugby League World Cup 2021 is full steam ahead.
And with the city council plotting how to get the local economy back on track, they're eyeing up big events like this as a way of boosting the recovery if things are back to normal by then.
The event organisers have announced Newcastle will play host to Scotland's men's team throughout the tournament, which is due to get going on October 23 next year.
Thanks to the success of the Magic Weekend events held in Newcastle, the city has been chosen to host the opening ceremony and fixture of the tournament at St James' Park.
Kingston Park will host three more group fixtures as 16 countries compete for the biggest prize in international rugby league.
Councillor Ged Bell, cabinet member for employment and culture, said: "The coronavirus crisis has unfortunately led to many major events being cancelled - however we are already building our city's recovery and looking forward to a packed programme of events next year including the opening game and launch of the Rugby League World cup in October 2021.
"Once again the eyes of the world will be on Newcastle as our reputation as a city that can host spectacular events continues to grow, we know how to put on a show and the Rugby League World Cup will be vibrant, colourful and thrilling.
"Newcastle is famous for its warm Geordie welcome and I am sure the Scotland team will feel the full support of the city as they embark on their tournament from their base on Tyneside."
Sarah Green, Chief Executive of NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said the event could provide a boost to the economy, adding last year’s European Professional Club Rugby Finals brought in nearly £25m to the region’s economy and in 2018 and Rugby League’s Magic Weekend saw 65,000 fans bring in a direct impact of nearly £8m.
