Radio 1's Big Weekend: Coldplay headlining, Ellie Goulding and Craig David announced

The annual two-day event will take place in Exeter on 28-29 May

Coldplay frontman Chris Martin said the band 'would be nothing without the NME' (Getty Images)

Coldplay are set to headline Radio 1's Big Weekend which will take place in the Devonshire city of Exeter.

Other acts confirmed to be playing are Ellie Goulding and Craig David, as well as Sheffield rockers Bring Me The Horizon and electronic duo Chase & Status.

Speaking about their appointment as headliners, Coldplay frontman Chris Martin said: "I lived the first few years of my life less than 500 yards from where we'll be performing so this couldn't be more of a homecoming for me.

"Guy, Will, Jonny and I are honoured to be on the bill and we're looking forward to a very special show."

Controller of Radio 1 and 1Xtra, Ben Cooper, said: "We've taken Lady Gaga to Carlisle, Taylor Swift to Norwich and now we're taking Chris Martin back home."

The weekend has changed location each year since its inception in 2003. As well as Swift, last year saw performances from Foo Fighters and Florence + the Machine.

Coldplay are widely expected to be headlining Glastonbury 2016 despite no official announcement - earlier on today (1 February), Jeff Lynne's ELO were announced as playing the festival's coveted 'legends' slot.

Radio 1's Big Weekend is a free event that will take place on 28-29 May on the grounds of Exeter's Powderham Castle; details on getting tickets will be announced on 21 March.