IT was an honour tonight to attend a formal dinner at the College of St. Hild and St. Bede in Durham, marking the end of a "International World Youth Exchange" programme.

Organised by Most Education, the programme brings together young people from countries around the world and is in its 6th year.

It was ulifting to see youngsters of various nationalities becoming friends, sharing cultures, and seeing the glory of the North-East of England.

Well done to everyone who took part and to those who made it happen. With so much division around the world, bringing young people together like this is priceless.