HOTEL manager Paul Watson showed off the most creative and eye-catching album covers of the year at an exhibition.

A shortlist of 50 record covers have been nominated for the award, which recognises the best artistic design in modern music culture.

The designs are being celebrated with exhibitions in Oxford’s Malmaison, as well as in Birmingham, Liverpool and London.

Mr Watson, manager of the hotel at Oxford Castle off New Road, said: “I think it is a really unique opportunity to have a look at these covers in a very unique location.”

He added that his favourite cover is Paul McCartney’s latest album, New.

Members of the public are invited to vote for their favourites and decide on the winner either at the hotel or online at artvinyl.com