THE North-East's business leaders and companies have been praised by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, who says their support has helped the UK's economy recover.

Mr Clegg says he has been impressed by the region in 2013, and said the recent City Deal announcements for Tees Valley and Newcastle would create vital jobs and strengthen the wider area.

Earlier this year, Mr Clegg visited the North-East to deliver Government Regional Growth Fund cash to help companies expand.

He met bosses from CAV Aerospace, in Consett, County Durham, which is a marker leader in ice protection systems for aircraft, and aims to create about 80 jobs with a £1.4m grant.

Mr Clegg also visited bottling firm Greencroft Bottling, near Stanley, also in County Durham, to confirm £750,000 Government funding that the company said will be used to create 72 jobs.

He said the Government has given £330m to 100 North-East businesses since 2010, which will create £1.9bn of private sector investment and thousands of jobs.

He added the City Deals would give greater power to people in the region, allowing them to decide how millions of pounds are invested in the area, and said there would be 35,000 apprenticeship started this year.

He said: “By handing powers over to local leaders, we are giving you the freedom to be really innovative and design new ways to boost your local economy.

“I'm pleased to see that thousands of jobs have been created in the region this year thanks to our work on the Regional Growth Fund and City Deals in Newcastle and the Tees Valley.

“I visited CAV Aerospace and Greencroft and saw first hand the hard work, dedication, and determination of local people and I want to thank you all for what you have done.

“You are helping to build a stronger economy and by taking responsibility for local issues you are building a fairer society.”