Alastair Campbell will be on stage in South Shields

Mr Campbell left 10 Downing Street at the height of the Hutton inquiry into the death of government scientist Dr David Kelly.

Billed as an audience with Alastair Campbell, tickets for the event on 30 January, are on sale at �14 each.

The last major political figure to appear at the Customs House was veteran labour politician Tony Benn in June 2002, where he sold out the 400-seat arts venue.

Director of the Customs House, Ray Spencer, said it was a coup for the venue.

"We are delighted to be first, yet again, to bring nationally renowned personalities to South Tyneside," he said.

Press secretary

"Alastair Campbell is arguably the most famous political press secretary the UK has ever seen.

"He was one of the original members of Tony Blair's inner circle, who helped steer Labour to two historic election victories.

"This promises to be an evening of reminiscences, stories, and a chance for people to put their own questions to the one of British politics' key players."