The Turner Contemporary has pulled off a huge coup in the art world after being chosen to host one of the most prestigious awards, the Turner Prize.

In 2019, the Margate gallery will be thrust into the international spotlight with an exhibition showcasing the four artists shortlisted for the coveted award.

The winner is announced the preceding year and previous presenters of the award have included Richard Attenborough, Yoko Ono and Madonna.

It is a major honour for the gallery, which opened in 2011 and is named after the 19 century artist JMW Turner, who was inspired by the coastal town in many of his works.

The gallery is on the same site where he stayed when visiting Margate.

The coveted Turner Prize is also named after the celebrated artist, who was seen as innovative and controversial in his day.

Since its inception in 1984, the prize has become one of the best-known art awards with previous winners including Damien Hirst and, last year, Helen Marten.

Hosts have included Glasgow and Londonderry, with this year’s event being held in Hull, the UK City of Culture 2017.