Hartlepool MP Peter Mandelson is backing a regional assembly

Hartlepool MP Peter Mandelson was at the event, where he backed calls for regional assemblies across England.

The former Cabinet minister said they would provide a vital economic boost.

Mr Mandelson was joined by Newcastle United Football Club president Sir John Hall.

Mr Mandelson said: "Devolving government to the English regions is not an optional add-on to other policies.

"It is a prior condition for achieving economic change and success in Britain."

'Power and leadership'

Sir John said a vote in October on devolution - for the North East, North West and Yorkshire and the Humber - was the culmination of a 30-year fight to take power to his region.

He said: "It's great. We've finally got the opportunity to vote and control our own destiny and build the region we want to see for our children and grandchildren.

"To do this we need money, power and leadership, and these points have to be debated over the coming months."

In December, the North East Assembly published a damning report into the state of the region.

The study, which is being examined by government ministers, showed the region has poor high-level skills, with too many poorly qualified people in low-skilled jobs.

It also says people in the region remain the most unhealthy in the country, with levels of poor health about 33% higher than the national average.